Recent heavy rains will likely increase mosquito numbers

[June 27, 2015]  LINCOLN - Due to the recent heavy rains, it is likely there will be an increase in the number of mosquitoes. In particular, the floodwater mosquito (Aedes vexans and other species) may appear a couple weeks after the rains and breed in areas that are flooded (which typically remain dry). These mosquitoes become an active nuisance and aggressively bite after heavy rains and flooding; however, they are not considered primary carriers of West Nile Virus (WNV).

The mosquito typically linked to WNV is the Culex pipiens or the “house mosquito.” These mosquitoes typically breed in areas of stagnant water such as concentrated or drying storm drains, ditches, gutters, bird baths and other containments. Once hot and dry weather conditions follow the flooding, and the flood waters dry up into stagnant pools, this can present a more than ideal condition for the breeding of the Culex mosquito.

Villages or townships conducting mosquito prevention activities are encouraged to target the primary carrier of WNV (Culex mosquito) through a larvicide prevention program to prevent potential spread of the disease by treating catch basins, ditches and old water impoundments. These sites may initially produce large numbers of floodwater mosquitoes, but once they start to dry and become stagnant, are likely to produce high numbers of the Culex or WNV carrying mosquitoes.

Regardless of the amount of rain and flooding, it’s extremely important to understand that the Culex mosquito can be active anytime during warm weather periods. This includes during periods of heavy rains and flooding.

To avoid the nuisance and risk of WNV exposure, the Logan County Department of Public Health (LCDPH) wants to remind all citizens to exercise precaution throughout the warm weather months.

By following these steps, you can help prevent the spread of mosquitoes and the risk of being bitten or infected.

• Avoid the outdoors when mosquitoes are most active, especially between dusk and dawn.
• When outdoors, wear shoes, socks, long-sleeved pants and a long-sleeved shirt. Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors so light-colored clothing is preferred.
• Apply insect repellent which includes DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus and be sure to follow the label instructions. Contact a physician before using repellents on infants and always follow the label instructions.

• Eliminate ways for mosquitoes to gain entry into your home. Be sure that screens that protect doors and windows are tight-fitting, free of tears and are in good repair.
• Eliminate all sources of standing water that can support mosquito breeding such as flower pots, clogged gutters, old tires, unused wading pools and other receptacles. Bird bath water should be replaced weekly.

If you are bitten by a mosquito, there is no reason to be tested for WNV since illnesses related to mosquito bites are rare. However, if you develop symptoms such as high fever, confusion, muscle weakness or severe headaches, you should see your doctor.

With funding provided by the Illinois Department of Public Health, the LCDPH is again conducting a program to monitor WNV activity by trapping and testing mosquitoes, by collecting and submitting eligible deceased birds for laboratory testing (must be dead less than 24 hours and have appeared to have died of natural causes) and by providing resources and information.

If you have questions regarding prevention of mosquito-related diseases or if you see a dead bird that meets the eligibility requirements, you can contact the Logan County Department of Public Health at 217-735-2317.

[Don Cavi, Logan County Department of Pulbic Helath / Information Source: IL Dept. of Public Health]