The Florida Department of Health in Pasco County (DOH-Pasco) advises residents that there has been an increase in mosquito-borne disease activity in areas of Pasco County, according to a news release.
Several sentinel chickens have tested positive for the Eastern equine encephalitis virus infection. As a result, the risk of transmission to humans has increased.
The Pasco County Mosquito Control District and DOH-Pasco continue surveillance and prevention efforts.
DOH-Pasco reminds residents and visitors to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes and to take basic precautions to help limit exposure.
To protect yourself from the insects, remember to drain standing water to stop mosquitoes from multiplying.
Drain water from garbage cans, house gutters, buckets, pool covers, coolers, toys, flowerpots and other containers. Empty plastic swimming pools and boat tarps that accumulate water, too.
Discard old tires, drums, bottles, cans, pots and pans, broken appliances and other items that aren’t being used. Empty and clean birdbaths and pet water bowls at least once or twice a week.
Residents should cover their skin with clothing or repellent.
Wear shoes, socks, long pants and long-sleeves.
Apply mosquito repellent to bare skin and clothing. Always use repellents according to the label.
Use mosquito netting to protect children younger than 2 months old.
For more information, visit Pasco.floridahealth.gov.
