Vector borne Diseases
Vector-borne diseases are infections transmitted by the various vectors (Arthopods, Plants, Fungi) e.g. by bite of infected arthropod species, such as mosquitoes, ticks, triatomine bugs, sandflies, and blackflies.
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The World Health Organization (WHO) states that control and prevention of vector-borne diseases are emphasizing “Integrated Vector Management (IVM)”, which is an approach that looks at the links between health and environment, optimizing benefits to both.
Prevention of Mosquito borne Diseases
Preventing mosquito bites is the best way to reduce the risk of mosquito-borne disease.
The following are some steps that can be taken to help prevent mosquito bites :
- Draining the water from garbage cans, house drain standing water from birdbaths, garbage cans, and other containers that can collect water.gutters, pool covers, coolers, toys, flower pots or any other containers where sprinkler or rain water has collected.
- Discarding old tires, drums, bottles, cans, pots and pans, broken appliances and other items that aren’t being used.
- Empty & clean the birdbaths and pet’s water bowls at least once or twice a week.
- Protect boats and vehicles from rain with tarps that don’t accumulate water.
- Maintain the water balance (pool chemistry) of swimming pools. Empty plastic swimming pools when not in use. Repair broken screens on windows, doors, porches, and patios.
- Keep mosquitoes out of your home by installing and/or repairing screens on windows and doors. Use air conditioning when available.
- If you must be outside when mosquitoes are active, cover up. Wear shoes, socks, and loose fitting, light colored, long sleeved shirts & pants.
- Apply mosquito repellent to bare skin and clothing. Always use repellents according to the label. Repellents with DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol, and IR3535 are effective. Use netting to protect children younger than 2 months. Wear mosquito repellent containing DEET (up to 30%).
- Avoid outdoor activity, if possible, or be sure to wear repellent during peak mosquito feeding times:
Dawn and dusk for Culex tarsalis mosquitoes that can spread West Nile virus.
Daytime for Aedes triseriatus mosquitoes that can spread La Crosse virus. - Before you travel, be aware of any mosquito-borne diseases that are circulating in the area, discuss your travel plans with your health care provider.
- Know where and when the mosquitoes that spread these diseases are most commonly found.
