Mosquitoes—and West Nile virus—are still a concern in NE Iowa

(Photo courtesy of Iowa Department of Public Health)

With all of the rainfall and standing, stagnant water serving as breeding grounds for mosquitoes, the Winneshiek County Public Health Department is urging the public to be more aware than ever of the potential concerns with mosquitoes bites.  Even with the seasons changing, mosquitoes are still biting. Late summer and early fall are the seasons of peak West Nile virus activity in the state.

The Health Department urges people to take the following steps to reduce the risk of exposure to West Nile virus:

•    Use insect repellent with DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Always read the repellent label and consult with a health care provider if you have questions when using these types of products for children. For example, DEET should not be used on infants less than 2 months old and oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under 3 years old.
•    Avoid outdoor activities at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
•    Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, shoes, and socks whenever possible outdoors.

So far this year, 15 cases of West Nile virus have been confirmed in Iowa. For more information about West Nile virus, visit idph.iowa.gov/cade/disease-information/west-nile-virus.