About Mosquito and Vector-borne Disease

Mosquitoes can carry diseases that are spread to man and animals. These diseases are sometimes fatal. In Ohio mosquitoes may be infected with the virus that causes one of these diseases: Lacrosse Encephalitis, St. Louis Encephalitis, Eastern Equine Encephalitis, and West Nile Encephalitis.

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Surveillance

Mosquito collection – Traps are set to collect mosquitoes for testing to identify infected mosquito populations.

Human disease cases are identified and investigated.

Mosquito Control

The Licking County Health Department practices an integrated pest management (IPM)approach to mosquito control. This includes trapping for adults, dipping for larvae, treating standing water with larvacide, draining breeding sites when possible, and spraying to kill adults when needed.

 

What are the symptoms of most mosquito-borne viruses?

 Most people infected with mosquito-borne viruses show no symptoms. Some people infected with a mosquito-borne virus have a mild fever, headache and muscle aches that will last up to a week. A small number of infected people will develop severe illness requiring hospitalization. These people may have body aches, fever, confusion, weakness, stiff neck, tremors, convulsions and may die. People over 50 years old who become infected with WNV, SLE or EEE are more likely to develop severe illness and may die from the disease. Children under the age of 16 who contract LAC or EEE are more likely than adults to develop severe illness. People with existing health problems who become infected with a mosquito-borne disease are at increased risk for severe illness.

Avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.

 Clothing will help protect you from mosquito bites. When possible, wear long sleeves, long pants and socks in addition to repellent when outdoors.  Repel mosquitoes when going outdoors during mosquito season by using repellents that contain an EPA-registered active ingredient such as DEET or picaridin. Follow the directions on the label.  Be aware of peak mosquito hours. Mosquitoes are most active and biting during the early morning and late evening hours. If outdoors at dawn or dusk, take extra care to use repellent and wear protective clothing.  Keep window and door screens closed and in good repair to keep mosquitoes out of your house.  Mosquitoes rest in tall weeds. Keep weeds cut short to help deter mosquitoes.

Drain water where mosquitoes grow.

Mosquitoes can grow in containers that hold water for more than a week such as pop cans, buckets, bottles and discarded tires.  Containers that fill with water should be emptied at least once a week.  Change the water in birdbaths every week.  Keep rain gutters clean.  Fix outdoor leaking faucets.  Clean ditches so water can flow.  Fill holes that hold water with gravel or dirt.

 

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