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MOSQUITOES
ground for all kinds of mosquitos as these areas are where they lay eggs.
Montano said everyone should be using repellent outdoors. Montano said mosquitoes are most aggressive in the early morning hours and evening, warning hikers and bikers to get prepared rather than dealing with the itching and rami cations later.
While mosquito bites are generally annoying more than anything, Montano said there are instances where a person can have a bad reaction. Topical creams such as Hydrocortisone and Benadryl can be useful, he said.
However, if a person sees unusual swelling in the bite area and has an abnormal allergic reaction, Montano recommends seeking care because added oral or steroid treatment may be required.
Galloway said most people infected with West Nile virus don’t have symptoms. About 20% of infected people will have u-like symptoms, and fewer than 1% develop a serious, potentially deadly illness.
Galloway said people aged 60 years and older and those with certain medical conditions are at greater risk of serious illness.
Montano said if when someone is having severe headaches or experiencing confusion from a mosquito bite they should seek medical care immediately.
Other tips provided by the state health department include: Use insect repellents when you go outdoors. Repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or para-menthane-diol products provide the best protection. For more information about insect repellents visit the EPA’s infor- mation webpage. Always follow label instructions. Limit outdoor activities at dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active. Wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and socks in areas where mosquitoes are active. Spray clothes with insect repellent for extra protection.
