Charles County, MD – As warm weather approaches, residents will greet another summer with vacations, swimming, outdoor picnics, and unfortunately mosquitoes. Mosquitoes can carry a number of diseases harmful to humans. Dengue, Chikungunya, and Zika are diseases commonly spread by mosquitoes. These diseases can be harmful to your health but are preventable. It is important that residents act to stop the breeding of mosquitoes and avoid mosquito bites. There are a number of recommended actions that residents can take:
- Use an approved insect repellent containing DEET when outdoors
- Use air conditioning when possible – keep doors and windows closed
- Make sure window screens are in place and free from holes
- Wear long sleeves and pants outside
- Regularly inspect the areas around your home and remove all mosquito breeding grounds: clogged gutters, planters, buckets, toys, pools, birdbaths, ponds, and any other standing water areas
The Charles County Department of Health is partnering with the Charles County Government to encourage residents to prevent mosquito bites over the coming season. For more information, visit the Charles County Department of Health at www.charlescountyhealth.org or 301-609-6900.
