With West Nile Virus rearing its ugly head once again in Miami-Dade, you need to know what to do to protect yourself. Aside from staying indoors and living the life of a hermit, there are things you can do to decrease the likelihood of contracting this disease. Here are a few to get you started.
 

• * Mosquitoes are most active at dawn, dusk and in the early evening. Try to remain indoors during these times.

• * When you do go outside, the first line of protection is clothing. Try to wear long sleeves, pants and socks when practical. Spray clothing with DEET or permethrin (a derivative of chrysanthemums).

• * Repellants containing DEET are usually more effective than those without. For adults, concentration from 10%-30% is best, with higher concentrations lasting longer. Spray clothes liberally and apply to all uncovered areas. For children, no more than 10% is recommended. *** DEET is not recommended for children under two months. *** Spray clothes before you put them on, and apply the repellant with your hands to uncovered parts of the child’s body. Avoid the eyes, mouth and hands.

• * If you don’t want to use chemicals, there are some other possible natural repellants. A dryer sheet of Bounce is said to keep mosquitoes at bay if put through your belt loops. A B-complex of vitamins also acts as a repellant according to many. Avon’s Skin-So-Soft is also said to be effective.

• * Standing water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Even a capful in your yard is dangerous. Empty all containers of standing water around your house. Places to look: empty flowerpots, garbage cans, ashtrays, candleholders, and children’s toys. Put drainage holes in tire swings, and change water regularly in bird baths and pet food bowls. Keep gutters clean to avoid water build-up.

• * If you have a pond, make sure you keep your aerator in good working order. Vegetation attracts breeding mosquitoes. You may want to consider stocking your pond with mosquito fish, small minnows that eat mosquito larvae.

• * Lastly, keep your indoors safe as well. Check all screens in your windows and doors; the smallest hole can let in a tiny mosquito or two. Also, keep drip-pans under your flowerpots empty; the standing water is dangerous here as well.

With a few precautions, mosquitoes and the threat of West Nile Virus don’t have to dampen your summer fun. Stay happy and healthy with awareness!