As we enter peak West Nile Virus (WNV) season, it is important to protect yourself against mosquitos! There are no vaccines to prevent or medications to treat WNV in people, but you can reduce your risk by preventing mosquito bites. Methods to prevent bites include using insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
You can also reduce your risk by reducing mosquito populations in your yard and neighborhood. Here are some steps you can take:
- Cover trash containers to keep out rainwater.
- Get rid of old tires, buckets, bottles or any items in your yard that may hold water.
- Change the water in bird baths, watering cans, plant pots and drip trays at least once a week.
- Keep grass cut short and shrubbery well-trimmed around your house so adult mosquitoes will not hide there.
- Learn more about preventing West Nile Virus here.