OSWEGO COUNTY – Oswego County Public Health Director Vera Dunsmoor reminds residents to remain vigilant about mosquito protection over the Labor Day holiday weekend.
“As everyone enjoys time outdoors this holiday weekend, we encourage them to continue taking protective measures to prevent mosquito bites,” she said. “Summer may be starting to wind down, but mosquitos are still present until the first heavy frost. Protect yourself and your family by wearing long sleeves and pants to cover your skin and avoiding time outdoors between dusk and dawn when mosquitos are most active.”
People may want to consider using insect repellants to reduce exposure to mosquitoes. Be sure to read all product labels and follow package instructions. Those that contain DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus are most effective. Those that contain permethrin are meant for clothing and gear and should not be applied directly to the skin.
Residents are also advised to reduce mosquito breeding sites around their homes and properties by eliminating standing water wherever it collects. Clean and chlorinate pools, hot tubs and saunas; and change the water in birdbaths and horse troughs twice a week. They should also repair or replace door and window screens to keep mosquitoes outside.
Mosquito dunk kits can also be used to reduce mosquito populations in certain situations. Kits contain a larvicide that must be used according to the directions provided. People can buy one for $5 at the Oswego County Soil and Water Conservation District, 3105 NYS Rte. 3, Fulton. Call 315-592-9663 for details.
For more information about protecting your family against mosquitoes, call the Oswego County Health Department at 315-349-3547 or visit the New York State Department of Health website at https://www.health.ny.gov/publications/2731/.
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