County releases mosquito prevention guide

The Daily Inter Lake

Flathead County officials call this summer the "perfect storm" for mosquitoes. A cool spring and elevated water levels followed by a hot June promoted a massive hatch.

Early season efforts to kill the larvae were moderately successful, but the immense acreage affected by rising ground and flood waters provided substantial mosquito habitat.

Flathead County Mosquito Control is testing, treating and mapping mosquito-producing areas. The county is applying larvicide to kill mosquitoes before they become adults.

Flathead County does not spray to control adult mosquitoes.

Surveillance for West Nile virus also is under way.

Traps are set, and the captured mosquitoes are sent to a laboratory for tests.

Mosquitoes capable of carrying the virus are low in numbers, but they are present in the valley.

To combat the mosquito problem, the county is advocating that citizens follow the five Ds of prevention: Dusk to Dawn, Dress, DEET, Drain and District.

. District: Report areas of standing water caused by seasonal flooding, snowmelt pools, irrigation run-off or other stagnant waters to the Mosquito Control District. E-mail bgunderson@co.flathead.mt.gov or call 751-8145.

. Drain: Remove water that provides breeding habitat for mosquitoes. Water will collect in gutters, cans, uncovered boats and tires. Keep clean water in children's wading pools and change water in bird baths, fountains and water troughs weekly.

. Dusk to dawn: Mosquitoes are most active in the morning and evening. Staying indoors or in a screened area will help prevent bites.

. Dress: Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, socks and hats when outdoors.

. DEET: Use repellents, but read the directions for correct use.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has updated information online at www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/RepellentUpdates.htm.

There are numerous recommendations about repellent use:

. Do not use on infants. Put them in a carrier or stroller and cover with netting.

. Use enough repellent to cover exposed skin, but do not apply to skin under clothing. Never use repellent on cuts, wounds or irritated skin.

. Do not apply to eyes or mouth and use sparingly around ears.

. If using repellent repeatedly during the day, wash treated skin with soap and water after returning indoors.