Legislator Jacobs Urges Residents to Take Precautions Against West Nile

Nassau County Legislator Judy Jacobs (D-Woodbury) urges all residents in her constituency to take steps to protect themselves and their families from illnesses caused by mosquitoes. In addition, Legislator Jacobs offered suggestions in the event the County Health Department conducts ground and/or aerial spraying. Legislator Jacobs said, “It is important to wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants to protect the skin and to avoid the outdoors during the peak mosquito activity periods between dusk and dawn. Consider using mosquito repellent when it is necessary to be outdoors when mosquitoes are biting. All indications are that this summer’s outbreak is worse than last year’s. We all must be careful and take every precaution.”

The following precautions can decrease the risk of mosquito bites and reduce mosquito breeding sites:
• Dispose of all water-holding containers, including tin cans, plastic containers and ceramic pots.
• Remove all discarded tires on your property. Used tires have become one the most common mosquito breeding grounds.
• Drill holes in the bottom of recycling containers that are kept outdoors.
• Make sure gutters drain properly, and clean clogged gutters in the spring and fall.
• Turn over plastic wading pools and wheelbarrows when not in use.
• Change the water in bird baths at least every four days.
• Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas, and hot tubs.
• Drain water from pool covers.
• Use landscaping to eliminate stagnant water that collects on your property; clean up leaf litter and similar organic debris.
• Make sure that all doors and windows have screens and that the screens are in good repair.

In the event the Health Department schedules ground spraying for West Nile Virus in our community, County officials request that residents:
• Keep all windows and doors closed.
• Remain indoors, especially pregnant women and children.
• Bring toys inside the home.
• Keep pets indoors.
• Wash thoroughly any consumable fruits or vegetables picked from your garden.
• Rinse or wash any exposed skin area.
• Consult a doctor if you experience any breathing difficulty or skin/eye irritation.

The effects of the spraying last only a few hours but you should take precautions. Spraying dates and times may change subject to weather conditions. If you have any questions or concerns call the Nassau County West Nile Hotline at 1-888-844-8657 or go online www.nassaucountyny.gov/agencies/health