Home >> Welcome >> West Nile
Fight the Bite!
Avoid Mosquito
Bites to Avoid Infection
Remember the "Four D's" to defend yourself
against West Nile virus.
| DUSK / DAWN |
are the times of day you should try to stay indoors.
This is
when infected mosquitoes are most active |
| DRESS |
in light-colored long sleeves and pants when you're
outside.
For extra protection you may want to spray thin clothing with
repellent. |
| DEET |
(N,N-diethyl-M-toluamide) is an ingredient to look for in your
insect repellent. Follow label instructions, and always wear repellent when
outdoors. |
| DRAIN |
standing water in your backyard and neighborhood - bird baths, old
tires, flowerpots, and clogged rain gutters. These are mosquito breeding sites.
|
Visit the Texas Department of Health at www.tdh.state.tx.us for more
information
WEST NILE VIRUS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS AND
INFORMATION
Has the City of Bridge City reported
cases of West Nile Virus this year?
No. However,
Orange County has reported confirmed cases of West Nile virus infection.
Does the City of Bridge City spray for
mosquitoes?
Yes, when Orange County is not spraying
and weather permitting. The City also sprays the park and ball field areas as
well as the marsh areas.
What can I do to help
eliminate mosquitoes from my yard?
At this
time, the Texas Department of Health recommends residents not allow water to
stagnate. Mosquito breeding sites can be everywhere. Citizens can help by being
diligent and removing all sources of stagnant water on their property.
Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Areas to look, are old tires,
flowerpots, trash containers, swimming pools, birdbaths, pet bowls etc...
Citizens may actively treat areas of stagnant water on their property not to
include creeks and other protected waterways.
Will
the City of Bridge City treat areas on private property?
No. The City of Bridge City may only treat areas that are publicly
owned and maintained. Private landowners are responsible for all maintenance on
their own property.
Are there any precautions I
should take?
Per the Texas Department of Health, "make
sure screens on doors and windows are in good condition; and avoid mosquito
bites by wearing long sleeves and pants when outside and using repellants
containing DEET". Spray clothing and exposed skin. Be aware of peak mosquito
hours. The hours from dusk to dawn are peak mosquito biting times. Consider
avoiding outdoor activities during these times or take extra care to use
repellent and protective clothing during evening and early morning
hours.
What should I do if I see a dead
bird?
Birds die from many causes. West Nile virus
primarily impacts crows and blue jays. If you find a dead crow or blue jay,
contact the Orange County Mosquito Control at 409-883-5717 or the Orange County
Health & Welfare Office at 409-883-6119. You may report the location of the
bird and receive instructions on proper disposal. People cannot become infected
by being in contact with the carcass but plastic gloves should be worn and hands
washed after disposal.
I have a creek that backs
up to my house. Will mosquitoes breed in the water?
Flowing creeks and waterways generally do not contain mosquito larvae.
Please note that the Texas Department of Health states that creeks and protected
waterways may not be treated.
I see standing water
in a drainage easement next to my property. Who do I call?
Please call the City of Bridge City or the Orange County Drainage
District, 409-745-3225, which ever may be responsible for maintaining the
drainage easements. For questions concerning areas maintained by the City of
Bridge City that contain areas of stagnant water please call 409-735-6801.
Links:
Texas Department
of Health - to obtain a printable copy of the West Nile Virus Information
Packet
http://www.tdh.state.tx.us/
Complete
West Nile Virus Information
http://www.tdh.state.tx.us/zoonosis/diseases/Arboviral/westNile/information/
[Includes precautions, FAQs and recommendations for eliminating
standing water on your property]
Orange County
Health Department
409-883-6119
Orange County Mosquito Control
409-883-5717
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