Regular monitoring at seven strategically placed sentinel chicken flocks have revealed the presence of the St. Louis Encephalitis virus at a second site in western parts of Palm Beach County.
Mosquito-borne illness has no boundaries and these findings, coupled with a recent dengue outbreak in Martin County, has prompted the Department of Health to remind residents and visitors to take simple preventive measures to protect against contracting mosquito-borne illnesses.
“Residents and visitors need to continue keeping themselves free from mosquito-borne diseases by taking precautions to prevent mosquito bites and eliminate mosquito friendly breeding places around their homes,” Health Department Director Dr. Alina Alonso said.
Alonso encourages basic prevention methods to help limit mosquito bites:
• Drain any standing water around your home.
• Check doors and window screen and repair any holes.
• Cover yourself with lightweight clothing that has long sleeves, wear long pants and socks and use an insect repellent.
If outdoors at dusk to dawn, be cautious as mosquitoes are most active during these times. However, some species are also active during the day.
Anyone suspecting they have contracted a mosquito-borne illness should contact their physician immediately. For more information on mosquito prevention, visit www.pbchd.com.
