FORT STEWART, Ga  –   Mosquito season is upon us. Community members should be aware of mosquito-borne threats in our area, and learn ways to keep you and your family safe.

One disease to note this season is Eastern Equine Encephalitis, a rare disease spread to humans and horses by infected mosquitoes. Additional information about EEE can be found on the Center for Disease Control’s website at https://www.cdc.gov/easternequineencephalitis.
 
Insect repellent is a great way to prevent being bitten by mosquitoes and other disease carrying arthropods.  Capt. Nikkole Crosson, Chief of Environmental Health at the Fort Stewart Department of Public Health, advises people to look at the active ingredients on the label of their bug spray. DEET is the most common repellent, but there are others that are equally safe and effective without the strong odor or greasy residue, such as picaridin or IR3535 (IR3535 may be listed as beta-alanine, N-acetyl-N-butyl-, and ethyl ester/carboxylic acid as the active ingredient).
 
There are some popular over-the counter products that contain picaridin or IR3535. No matter what insect repellent you choose, always follow the instructions.    
 
When applying sunscreen and an insect repellent, put the sunscreen on first, let it absorb for 10 minutes, and then apply the insect repellent.
 
Other measures to reduce mosquitoes in your area is to remove sources of standing water where mosquitoes can breed, such as wading pools, gutters, and pet drinking water. Additionally, mosquitoes are small and not strong fliers, so having a strong fan pointed at you will reduce their ability to reach you. Finally, wearing loose-fitting pants and long sleeves can also help by limiting skin exposure. Clothing can be treated with permethrin to add another protective layer against mosquito bites.
 
If you are bitten, wash the area with soap and water and treat the symptoms of the bite. Applying an ice pack for 10 minutes can reduce swelling and itching and over-the-counter anti-itch or antihistamine cream can help relieve itching.   
 
Learn more about mosquitoes and mosquito-borne illnesses at www.cdc.gov/mosquitoes.