The Florida Department of Health in Osceola County (DOH-Osceola) announced late Tuesday there has been an increase in mosquito-borne disease activity in the area.
Two cases of Eastern Equine Encephalitis in horses have been confirmed, and there is a heightened concern residents could become ill, as the risk of transmission to humans has increased.
Osceola County Mosquito Control and (DOH-Osceola) continue surveillance and prevention efforts, while asking residents to do what they can to help eliminate providing breeding grounds and getting bit.
The best way is to “Drain and Cover” — drain standing water from garbage cans, house gutters, buckets, pool covers, coolers, toys, plastic swimming pools, flower pots or any other containers where sprinkler or rain water has collected. Discard old tires, drums, bottles, cans, pots and pans, broken appliances and other items that aren't being used, and empty and clean birdbaths and pet water bowls regularly.
When outside, particularly close to sunrise or sunset, cover exposed skin with clothing (sleeves, pants) or insect repellent with the concentrations of up to 30 percent of the active ingredient DEET. Wear shoes, socks, and long pants and long-sleeves, especially if you must work in areas (i.e. near ponds, creeks) where mosquitoes are present.
The Health Department continues to conduct statewide surveillance for mosquito-borne illnesses, including West Nile virus infections, Eastern equine encephalitis, St. Louis encephalitis, malaria, chikungunya and dengue. The Zika virus was a concern in the area starting in 2016.
Area residents are encouraged to report dead birds via the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s site: http://legacy.myfwc.com/bird/default.asp.
For more information, visit DOH’s website at: www.floridahealth.gov/%5C/diseases-and-conditions/mosquito-borne-diseases/index.html, or contact the Health Department in Osceola County at 407-343-2000.
