The Hays County Courthouse is reminding residents to take precautions during mosquito season and use the fours D’s.
As the fall season begins, many mosquitoes are out to bite. Mosquitoes in Central Texas can carry potentially deadly disease like Chikungunya, West Nile virus, and Rift Valley Fever. These viruses can be transmitted to humans or animals by an infected mosquitoes bite. The Department of State Health Services performs tests on different mosquitoes that fly around Central Texas. In these tests, scientists identify the species of the mosquito and test it to see if it is infected or not. During these tests, scientists say they look mostly for a specific gender of the mosquito.
“We are looking for the female mosquitoes that are seeking out a blood meal,” said Monty Gomez, Hays County Epidemiologist. ”They are smelling the sweat from our bodies and skin, so they are attracted and drawn to that. They are trying to get this last blood meal before they lay their eggs in an appropriate environment that will hopefully, for them continue their species.”
Hays County recommends you use the four D’s to help prevent being bit by a mosquito.
DRAIN: Drain all free standing water outside near plants and patios.
DRESS: Dress in long sleeves and long pants to protect yourself from being bitten by a mosquito.
DUSK/DAWN: Do not go out during sunrise or sunset because this is the time most mosquitoes are out to bite.
DEET: Use the EPA-recommended mosquito repellant to protect your from being bitten at anytime of the day.
Gomez recommends we all use the four D’s because anyone can be bitten by a mosquito.
“Anyone is susceptible to a bite,” Gomez said. “It’s kind of the unlucky loitering. We have had reported cases in surrounding counties of Chikungunya and West Nile virus, so I wouldn’t say it is beyond us.”
Hays County already has a mosquito trapping program funded by the Department of Health and Human Services. They want to remind residents to continue to fight the bite and for information, click here.
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