Residents Reminded to Drain and Cover to Protect from Mosquito-Borne Illness

Residents Reminded to Drain and Cover to Protect from Mosquito-Borne Illness

(Monroe County, Fla)—The Florida Department of Health in Monroe County (DOH-Monroe) and the Florida Keys Mosquito Control District (FKMCD) remind residents and visitors that it is important to “Drain and Cover” to prevent mosquitos from breeding and biting. Everyone is encouraged to take simple precautions to protect themselves and their neighbors from mosquito- borne illnesses.

“While there is currently no active, ongoing transmission of mosquito-borne illness in Monroe County, residents and travelers should always take precautions to protect against mosquito bites. With the recent rain spells, take time to check your home and business for anything that collects water and drain it out after it rains. Check these areas frequently,” said Ysla Veliz, RN and Epidemiologist for the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County.

According to Andrea Leal, Executive Director of FKMCD, “We have seen an uptick in the mosquito population recently due to seasonal rains. A strong partnership with the residents and business owners in the Florida Keys is a vital part of FKMCD’s successful comprehensive mosquito prevention strategy. Every time a person dumps standing water or covers an open container, they are making a critical stand against mosquito-borne diseases such as Dengue Fever.”

To protect against mosquitoes, the public is urged to take basic precautions to help limit exposure. These measures include intact windows and screens and the use of air conditioning, keeping the area around your residence free from containers that collect water, wearing protective clothing, appropriate use of insect repellents after applying sunscreen, and spraying out bromeliads and croton plants on a regular basis. Residents are reminded to drain all standing water frequently and designate individuals to share this key responsibility within the business or household.

The Florida Keys Mosquito Control District reminds you that their inspectors are available and ready to help rid your property of existing mosquitoes as well as assist you with mosquito prevention assistance during the rainy season ahead. Please call them at 305-292-7190 or go to www.keysmosquito.org to make a service request.

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