Provided by the Oswego County Health Department
The Oswego County Public Health Department reminds people that although the days are becoming shorter and the temperatures are dropping, mosquitoes are still present in the environment until the first hard frost of the season. Everyone should continue to protect themselves from mosquitoes as they enjoy outdoor activities during the nice fall weather.
“While the mosquito population has been reduced considerably with the cooler weather, they remain in our environment until the first hard frost,” said Oswego County Public Health Director Vera Dunsmoor. “To guard against the threat of mosquito-borne diseases, it’s important for people to continue their personal protection practices when they’re out enjoying activities such as hiking, fishing or camping.”
People are advised to use insect repellents when participating in outdoor activities, wear protective clothing such as long sleeves, pants, socks and shoes whenever possible and try to limit outdoor activities when mosquitoes are most active.
Insect repellants that contain DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus are effective. Repellents which contain permethrin are meant for clothing and gear and should not be applied directly to the skin. Read the product label for repellents and follow package instructions.
As always, residents are advised to reduce mosquito habitats around their homes. By taking the following steps now to prepare for winter, they can also be ready for spring:
– Check window and door screens for rips or tears and make any needed repairs or install replacements.
– Turn over wheelbarrows and empty or dispose of pails, cans, flowerpots and similar water-holding containers. Store these items indoors if possible.
– Drill holes in the bottoms of recycling containers that are kept outdoors.
– Clear roof gutters to be sure they drain properly.
– Use landscaping to eliminate standing water that collects on your property.
– Dispose of old tires as they are a significant mosquito breeding site. Used tires are accepted at Oswego County transfer stations for a charge. Contact the Oswego County Solid Waste Department at 315-591-9200 for details.
Earlier this year, the health department and the Oswego County Soil and Water Conservation District (OCSWCD) partnered to distribute free mosquito dunk kits to be used in certain circumstances. Each kit contains a larvicide and must be used according to the directions included.
Dunk kits are still available in many locations around the county. Homeowners can pick them up at the front desk at the Oswego County Health Department, entrance B, 70 Bunner St., Oswego; at the OCSWCD, 3105 NYS Rte. 3, Fulton; or at their local municipal facility.
For more information about the mosquito dunk kits, call 315-592-9663 or go to www.oswegosoilandwater.com.
