Orange County Health Officials Urge Preventative Measures Amidst Surge in Mosquito-Borne Illness

Vector control services working to combat mosquito population

Residents of Orange County are being urged to take preventative measures against mosquito bites as the region experiences a surge in mosquito-borne illnesses.

The Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District has reported a significant increase in cases of West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne diseases in recent weeks.

Residents urged to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites

To protect themselves from mosquito bites, residents are advised to:

• Wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors
• Use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or IR3535
• Eliminate standing water around their homes, where mosquitoes can breed
• Keep doors and windows closed or screened to prevent mosquitoes from entering

Vector control services working to reduce mosquito population

In addition to urging residents to take preventative measures, the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District is actively working to reduce the mosquito population.

Vector control crews are conducting larviciding and adulticiding treatments in areas where mosquitoes are known to breed.

The district is also working to educate the public about the importance of mosquito control and the steps that residents can take to protect themselves.

Symptoms of mosquito-borne illnesses

The most common mosquito-borne illnesses in Orange County are West Nile virus, St. Louis encephalitis, and Western equine encephalitis.

Symptoms of these illnesses can include fever, headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

In severe cases, mosquito-borne illnesses can lead to brain inflammation, paralysis, and even death.

Seek medical attention if you experience symptoms

Anyone who experiences symptoms of a mosquito-borne illness should seek medical attention immediately.

Early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent serious complications.

For more information on mosquito-borne illnesses and how to protect yourself, please visit the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District website at www.ocvector.org.