Mosquito-Borne Diseases

Mosquitoes are more than a nuisance – they can transmit pathogens that can cause diseases in humans and animals. West Nile virus is the most prevalent and serious disease transmitted by mosquitoes. There is no human vaccine for West Nile virus, which can cause debilitating cases of meningitis, encephalitis, and even death. Below is more information about West Nile virus and how to protect yourself and your family from mosquito bites.

• Chikungunya Fever
• Dengue
• Eastern Equine Encephalitis
• Malaria
• Rift Valley Fever 
• Saint Louis encephalitis (SLE)
• West Nile virus (WNV)
• Yellow fever
• Zika 

Preventing Mosquito-Borne Diseases

Preventing mosquito bites is the best way to reduce the risk of mosquito-borne disease. Mosquitoes can be found in many different environments and you may not always notice when you have been bitten. Mosquito activity in Florida can be year round. The following are some steps that can be taken to help prevent mosquito bites.

DRAIN: water from garbage cans, house gutters, pool covers, coolers, toys, flower pots or any other containers where sprinkler or rain water has collected.

DISCARD: Old tires, drums, bottles, cans, pots and pans, broken appliances and other items that aren’t being used.

EMPTY and CLEAN: Birdbaths and pet’s water bowls at least once or twice a week.

PROTECT: Boats and vehicles from rain with tarps that don’t accumulate water.

MAINTAIN: The water balance (pool chemistry) of swimming pools. Empty plastic swimming pools when not in use. Repair broken screens on windows, doors, porches, and patios.

CLOTHING: If you must be outside when mosquitoes are active, cover up. Wear shoes, socks, long pants, and long sleeves.

REPELLENT: Apply mosquito repellent to bare skin and clothing. Always use repellents according to the label. Repellents with DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, methyl nonyl ketone, and IR3535 are effective. Use mosquito netting to protect children younger than 2 months.