Lincolnton – Health officials in Lincoln County today provided tips for the county’s residents to follow in preventing tick- and mosquito-borne diseases.
“Recent rains and humid temperatures can result in a friendly breeding environment for mosquitoes and ticks,” said Margaret B. Dollar, director of the Lincoln County Health Department. “Residents can make their yards less friendly for disease-carrying insects and take steps to prevent being bitten:”
• Keep grass short, and remove plants that attract animals like deer and rodents;
• Pour out any standing water and remove containers that can hold water such as old tires, planters, tin cans, etc.
• Make sure rain barrels have tightly secured screens over all openings;
• Keep gutters clean and in good repair;
• Repair leaky outdoor faucets and frequently change the water in bird baths and pet bowls;
• Check window and door screens for tears and holes, and repair if needed.
Lincoln County’s Mosquito Control Rules, designed to educate residents about mosquito control and eradication, can be found at Mosquito Control Rules
“It is important to remember to always put on repellent while working in your yard or garden, or playing outdoors,” Ms. Dollar said, “and wear cover-ups such as long-sleeved shirts, long pants and socks.” People should also check themselves and their families for ticks. CDC recommends repellants with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus (do not use on children under 3 yrs. of age). Repellents containing permethrin provide excellent protection against ticks but may only be used on clothing. Read and follow all label instructions. For additional information about preventing mosquito and tick bites, go to the following Web sites: www.deh.enr.state.nc.us/phpm,
www.epi.state.nc.us/epi/arbovirus and www.epi.state.nc.us/epi/tick.