State officials are reminding South Carolinians of several tips to help prevent mosquito bites while enjoying time outside this summer.
There are at least 61 different species of mosquitoes in South Carolina, but fortunately, not all of them bite people. Often, mosquitoes are simply a nuisance, but some species can pose serious health risks to people and animals by spreading diseases. The most common diseases potentially carried by mosquitoes in South Carolina include the West Nile virus, eastern equine encephalitis virus, La Crosse encephalitis virus, Saint Louis encephalitis virus, and dog/cat heartworm. West Nile virus is the biggest disease concern for people.
“As people naturally spend more time outdoors this time of year they’re exposed to all types of mosquitoes, so knowing how to protect yourself and your family from bites is important,” said Dr. Chris Evans, former State Public Health Entomologist with DHEC.
The American Mosquito Control Association recommends three “Ds” to keep mosquitoes away:
- Drain: Empty water-holding containers completely at least once per week.
- Dress: Wear long sleeves, long pants and light-colored, loose-fitting clothing when outdoors.
- Defend: Properly apply an EPA-registered product that contains a repellent such as catnip oil, citronella/citronella oil, DEET, IR 3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, picaridin, 2-undecanone or permethrin-treated clothing. With all repellents, be sure to follow product label instructions.
Although the state does not perform mosquito control, it does provide information that helps individuals, communities and local mosquito control programs take actions to reduce mosquito populations. Mosquito control programs are managed locally by county or city governments.
“Because mosquitoes can lay eggs in as little as a bottlecap of water, getting rid of standing water that can accumulate in outdoor items such as flowerpots, buckets, tires and debris is one of the most effective ways to reduce mosquito populations at home and in your community,” Evans said. “Reducing the overall mosquito population reduces the risk for disease spread through their bites.”
For more information on steps to prevent mosquito bites and eliminate mosquito-breeding grounds, visit dph.sc.gov/diseases-conditions/infectious-diseases/insects-and-vector-borne-diseases/mosquitoes-south-carolina.