Iberia Parish says that West Nile Virus has been detected in mosquito populations in the parish and residents should protect themselves from mosquito bites.
Officials with theIberia Parish Mosquito Abatement Districtsay that West Nile Virus activity has been found in mosquito surveillance samples in Iberia Parish. Ground and aerial operations are underway to subdue these mosquito populations, according to a release.
The Iberia Parish Mosquito Control District it urging citizens to protect themselves against mosquito bites and mosquito born diseases.
The District says that it is imperative that citizens keep insect repellent handy, wear light-colored clothing with long sleeves and long pants when outdoors and get rid of mosquito breeding sites near the home.
Residents throughout the parish are urged to follow these simple guidelines recommended by the CDC
- Apply mosquito repellent that contains DEET, Picaridin or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus and apply as directed on the skin.
- Protect children sensitive to insect bites with repellent and cover exposed skin — there are many preparations sold in drug stores and camping sections of local stores that are formulated for adults as well as children.
- Wear light-colored, lightweight clothing with long sleeves and long pants when outdoors at dawn or dusk.
- Avoid wearing perfumes or colognes when outside for prolonged periods
- Remove all sources of standing water near your home (ie cans, barrels, planters, tires, containers and tarps.)
- Keep all pools, spas, bird baths, ponds and fountains clean and free of debris
- Maintain tight-fitting screens on doors and windows
- Don’t FEED the storm drains! Sweep up lawn clippings, leaves and tree limbs from sidewalks and driveways.
For more information on West Nile Virus such as symptoms and how it spreads, click here. For local information on the control of mosquitos and the diseases they carry, click here.
