The Florida Department of Health in Monroe County (DOH-Monroe) and the Florida Keys Mosquito Control District (FKMCD) are asking residents of the Florida Keys to take action now to minimize potential mosquito hot spots and lessen the chance of being bitten during an unusually active “early” mosquito season this summer.
FKMCD officials say that daily high temperatures in June and July are rivaling those normally experienced during later summer months and are contributing to an unusually busy “early” mosquito season in the Florida Keys. Mosquito larvae tend to develop into adult mosquitoes more quickly as temperatures climb, reducing the time available for mosquito control staff to eliminate them before they fly and have a chance to bite.
According to Andrea Leal, executive director of the Florida Keys Mosquito Control District, “Mosquito populations are predictably higher in the summer, but the warmer temperatures and widespread precipitation have kicked mosquito control operations into overdrive during the last several weeks. If the warmer temperatures continue to inch upward then mosquito activity is likely to follow suit, so now is the time for visitors and residents to take action and protect themselves from mosquitoes.”
The Florida Department of Health in Monroe County is monitoring the uptick in mosquito activity as well. Elsewhere in Florida, there have been sporadic reports of mosquito-borne diseases, including six cases of locally acquired malaria in the area surrounding Sarasota.
“While there is currently no active, ongoing transmission of mosquito-borne illness in Monroe County, there is an increase in some areas on the mainland,” said Dr. Carla Fry, DOH-Monroe administrator and health officer. “We ask that residents and visitors take the precautions listed below, and remember if wearing sunscreen and mosquito repellent, apply the sunscreen first.”
The public is urged to take the following basic precautions to help minimize the threat of mosquito bites:
· Make sure windows and window screens are secure and free from holes or gaps.
· Dump any standing water and frequently flush any water holding plants.
· Wear protective clothing such as long sleeves and long pants.
· Use only EPA-registered insect repellents such as DEET and remember to reapply as directed. Find the Repellent that is Right for You | US EPAThe mosquito control district’s inspectors are available and ready to help rid property of existing mosquitoes as well as assist with mosquito prevention assistance during the rainy season ahead. Please call them at 305-292-7190 or go to www.keysmosquito.org to make a service request.
