Warmer weather brings mosquito concerns

  • Published
  • By 22nd Medical Group Public Health Flight
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  Warm summer weather approaching means more outdoor activities. However, being outside, day or night, may expose individuals to bites from different insects that can carry and transmit diseases.

In recent years, there have been a variety of mosquito-borne disease outbreaks throughout the world. These diseases include the Chikungunya, Dengue, West Nile and Zika viruses. These viruses are carried by different mosquito species such as Aedes and Culex.

Due to the low number of Aedes mosquitoes in Kansas, the local area is currently deemed "low-risk" for locally-acquired Zika virus. However, we do have Culex mosquitoes in most regions of Kansas, so West Nile Virus is a continued medical risk.

At this time, there are no specific vaccinations or medications to prevent these carried diseases, but there are a variety of ways to reduce your exposure to these insects and protect yourself and your family.

Reduce mosquito breeding areas by removing containers outside that trap standing water, such as empty tarps, old tires and buckets. Refresh water in bird baths, pet bowls and wading pools daily and routinely perform lawn care, minimize yard clutter and cover trash receptacles. 

Install window and door screens to keep mosquitoes outside and wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors.

Use Environmental Protection Agency-registered insect repellent containing at least 15 percent of the chemical N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide, on exposed skin. Use as directed by the label.

Before you travel outside of the country, self-educate on potential medical risks or speak with your local public health office or medical provider.

McConnell Public Health and Pest Management personnel will continue their seasonal insect-monitoring programs. Pest Management may apply environmental treatments on the installation as a last resort for mosquito reduction techniques.

For more information about insect-borne diseases, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at http://www.cdc.gov/, or the Kansas Department of Health at http://www.kdheks.gov/epi/arboviral_disease.htm.   

For questions regarding health concerns, contact the 22nd Medical Group Public Health at (316)-759-5167.