The intensity of West Nile Virus transmission continues to increase at a concerning rate in Indiana as reported by the State Department of Health although no investigated and confirmed cases have been reported in Jackson County. “They are still trapping large numbers of Culex mosquitoes to track populations,” said Lin Montgomery of the Jackson County Health Department. Culex breed in water-holding containers.
Residents should continue to survey their property for anything that is holding water and make certain bird baths and pet dishes are refreshed regularly. Sites such as containers (rain gutters, discarded tires, buckets, abandoned swimming pools, etc.) will be quickly used by Culex females for an ovipositor. These and other containers have also been filled by the recent rains. As this occurs, the Culex populations will grow and peak by mid-August or continue to grow until the temperatures drop below 60 degrees during the daytime.
The Culex mosquito is a nighttime biter when temperatures are above 60 degrees and are out to feed from dusk to dawn. To help prevent from contracting West Nile Virus, the Health Department recommends the following:
Using an insect repellant that contains DEET, picaradin or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
Wearing shoes, socks, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt when outdoors for long periods of time, or from dusk to dawn, when mosquitoes are most active. Clothing should be light colored and made of tightly woven materials to keep mosquitoes away. Pant legs should be tucked into shoes or socks and collars should be buttoned.
Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in an unscreened structure.
If you have a mosquito problem around your neighborhood or home, please give the Health Department a call at 522-6474.
