Fight the Bite: Alexandria Health Department Shares Tips to Prevent Mosquito-Borne Illness

ALEXANDRIA, VA-The Alexandria Health Department (AHD) is encouraging residents to prevent mosquito-borne illness by practicing healthy habits this fall.

The cooler weather of September brings many Alexandrians outdoors, where mosquitoes wait to give itchy bites.  Different mosquitoes, including some that can live in Alexandria, can carry diseases and pass them on by biting us.

West Nile virus, a viral disease carried by mosquitoes, circulates in Northern Virginia from mid-summer to early fall.  Symptoms of West Nile virus include fever, headache, body aches, vomiting, diarrhea or rash.  Most people don’t get very sick, but people 50 years and older are at higher risk of severe illness and hospitalization. Alexandria identifies a small number of cases of West Nile virus each year.

“It can feel like mosquitoes are unavoidable in Alexandria,” said AHD Deputy Director Dr. Anne Gaddy, “but the good news is that Alexandrians can prevent bites and illness with some simple habits.”

People going outside should apply insect repellent as directed on repellent labels. A range of sprays and wipes are available.  Bug sprays with DEET have been researched to show the best protection, but the best repellent is the one you will use.

Also, wear long, loose and light-colored clothing to cover your skin and move your nighttime activities inside since mosquitoes are most active in the evening.

Residents can help reduce the number of mosquitoes in their area by dumping standing water. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water, and even a bottlecap full of water is big enough for breeding. Flowerpots, gutters, trash can lids and tarps are some places to find and dump standing water after it rains.

“We also want to make sure that Alexandrians know that there are different types of mosquitoes and mosquito-borne illnesses all over the world,” said Dr. Gaddy. “Just like you’d look up the weather before a trip, research local mosquito guidance before traveling for a safe visit.”

More information about mosquito safety is available online at www.alexandriava.gov/mosquitocontrol or by calling Alexandria Health Department’s Environmental Health Division at 703-746-4910.

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