ORLANDO - Mosquito populations are exploding throughout the entire Orange County area as a result of the heavy rains we recently experienced.  Orange County Mosquito Control has increased spraying in all areas of the county in an attempt to control the populations. The usual precautions with mosquito repellents, long sleeves, long pants are critically important now.

Throughout the year, OCHD works with Orange County Mosquito Control, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and state universities, to monitor for the presence of illnesses carried by mosquitoes. This "It is important for people to be aware that standing water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes and can lead to an increase in the insects. There are simple measures to reduce the chances of contracting a mosquito-borne illness," said Dr. Kevin M. Sherin, Director of the Orange County Health Department.

Orange County residents and visitors should remain diligent in protecting themselves from mosquito bites by following the "5 D’s," which include:

• DRAINAGE – Check around your home to rid the area of standing water, where mosquitoes can lay their eggs.
• DEET – When the potential exists for exposure to mosquitoes, repellents containing DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide, or N,N-diethyl-3- methylbenzamide) are recommended. Picaridin and oil of lemon eucalyptus are other repellent options.
• DRESS – Wear clothing that covers most of your skin.
• DUSK and DAWN – Avoid being outdoors when mosquitoes are most active.

Tips on Eliminating Mosquito Breeding Sites

• DRAIN standing water to stop mosquitoes from multiplying.
• DISCARD: Old tires, drums, bottles, cans, pots and pans, broken appliances and other items that aren't being used.
• EMPTY and CLEAN: Birdbaths and pet's water bowls at least once or twice a week.
• PROTECT: Boats and vehicles from rain with tarps that don't accumulate water.
• MAINTAIN: The water balance (pool chemistry) of swimming pools. Empty plastic swimming pools when not in use.

Symptoms of mosquito-borne illnesses such as West Nile virus (WNV), St. Louis Encephalitis (SLE), and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) may include headache, fever, fatigue, dizziness, weakness, and confusion. Physicians should contact their county health department if they suspect an individual may have a mosquito-borne illness. Department of Health (DOH) laboratories provide testing services for physicians treating patients with clinical signs of mosquito-borne illnesses.

For more information on mosquito-borne diseases, visit the DOH Environmental Health website at http://www.doh.state.fl.us/Environment/medicine/arboviral/index.html