Because West Nile virus (WNV) can cause a debilitating illness in 20% of those infected, and no treatment is currently available, everyone should take precautions to prevent being bitten by mosquitoes.
Follow the Four D’s when mosquitoes are most active (June through September) to help reduce the risk of being infected with WNV.
With this year’s rainy spring, it’s also very important to eliminate and drain standing water on your property to prevent breeding.
The Four D’s – follow the links below for more in-depth information from Boulder County Public Health
DEET
Use insect repellant that contains at least 10% DEET. If outside during evening, nighttime, and dawn hours, consider the use of an insect repellant containing 10% to 30% DEET (N, N-diethyl- methyl-meta-toluamide). Products with concentrations around 10% are effective for periods of approximately two hours. Do not apply DEET directly to children, and do not apply it to children’s hands.
DRESS
Wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks, and closed-toe shoes provides a physical barrier between mosquitoes and your skin. This reduces the chances of getting bitten, especially during peak mosquito activity.
DUSK & DAWN
Reduce or eliminate outdoor activity between dusk and dawn.
DRAIN
Mosquitoes breed in standing water, so make sure to empty, clean, or cover any containers that can collect water around your home. Regularly check flowerpots, bird baths, gutters, and other areas where stagnant water can accumulate.
Stay updated from the Boulder County Public Health Department
Stay updated on local mosquito activity and health advisories by following Boulder County Public Health.