It’s summertime so protect yourself from mosquitoes

OC VECTOR CONTROL

National Mosquito Control Awareness Week is June 20-26, and the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District (OCMVCD) wants people to know that mosquito breeding season is upon us.

As mosquito season lengthens and Orange County continues to see the increase of the day-biting Aedes invasive mosquito, it’s important to take steps to protect yourself.

The Zika virus is spread to people primarily through the bite of an infected mosquito (Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus).

The illness is usually mild with symptoms lasting up to a week, and many people do not have symptoms or will have only mild symptoms. However, Zika virus infection during pregnancy can cause a serious birth defect called microcephaly. Precautions include:

• Every week, dump and drain containers that are filled with water.

• Apply mosquito repellents to exposed skin before going outdoors; reapply as recommended.

• Wear repellent containing DEET®, Picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.

• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and opt for lightercolored clothing. For more information, visit

www.ocvector.org.