N.Y. (WIVT/WBGH) – Time now for public health matters, a monthly check in with the Broome County Health Department on ways to keep you and your family healthy and safe
Tonight, Medical Director Lazarus Gehring is cautioning people about mosquito-borne illnesses
Dr. Gehring says we’re at the height of mosquito season and there are two viruses that mosquitoes carry that can affect people in our area
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The first is West Nile Virus which causes fever and chills and most-notably a severe and persistent headache
The other, which is far less common but more dangerous, is Eastern Equine Encephalitis which causes swelling of the brain
Gehring says using bug sprays and covering up when outdoors are common sense prevention measures
“Probably the first thing is to get rid of your standing water. Particularly if your yard is afflicted by it, if you have the opportunity. Even potted plants that are outstanding after a rainstorm with standing water. Mosquitoes will find it,” Gehring says
Gehring says people should also make sure they have screens on their windows and doors and can use mosquito netting where appropriate
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He says bats can be helpful in keeping the mosquito population down, but they come with their own set of public health risks, namely rabies
Gehring says that with climate change, certain tropical species of mosquitoes that carry more viruses are starting to show up in the Southern U.S
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