Health Department's Four Ds to Stay Mosquito Free
Following the nation's recent West Nile Virus outbreak, many residents have asked about local prevention efforts.
Here at the City of McAllen, the Environmental & Health Code Compliance Department does have an ongoing mosquito control program and so far there have been no cases of West Nile Virus in McAllen.
In addition to the efforts of City staff to rid our area of the pesky bugs, there are steps you can take to keep your neighborhood mosquito free. The director of the Environmental & Health Code Compliance Department recommends the following Four Ds as your best defense against disease carrying mosquitoes.
1. Use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
2. DRESS in long sleeves and long pants when you are outside.
3. Stay indoors at DUSK and DAWN, when mosquitoes are most active.
4. DRAIN standing water where mosquitoes breed. Common breeding sites include old tires, flowerpots and clogged rain gutters.
Watch this video produced by the McAllen Cable Network, featuring an interview with City of McAllen Environmental & Health Code Compliance Director Josh Ramirez.