NEW CITY, NY, – With the arrival of fall weather and cooling temperatures, the Rockland County Department of Health (RCDOH) reminds residents that mosquitoes remain active through the early fall. Residents are encouraged to continue protecting themselves from mosquito bites and to eliminate standing water around their homes to reduce mosquito-borne illnesses, such as West Nile virus.
Mosquitoes can lay eggs in standing water found in common household items, such as birdbaths, unused flowerpots, un-rimmed tires, tarps, and even small bottle caps. Fallen leaves, pine needles, and other seasonal debris can also collect water and create places for mosquitoes.
“Even though summer has ended, mosquitoes remain active in our community,” said Dr. Mary Leahy, Rockland County Commissioner of Health. “By taking simple steps, residents can help reduce mosquito populations and protect themselves and their neighbors from mosquito-borne diseases.”
Prevent Mosquito Breeding Around Your Home
- Empty standing water regularly. Check your property after rain, and remove water from buckets, toys, flowerpots, birdbaths, tarps, pool covers, and other containers.
- Keep gutters clear. Remove leaves and other seasonal debris so water can drain properly.
- Turn over or cover outdoor items. Store toys, buckets, canoes, wheelbarrows, and wading pools so they cannot collect rainwater.
- Remove items that can hold water. Get rid of old tires and other unused items that can become mosquito breeding sites.
Protect Yourself from Mosquito Bites
- Cover up when outdoors. Wear long, loose-fitting shirts and pants, socks, and closed-toe shoes.
- Use EPA-registered insect repellent as directed on the label. Do not use repellent on babies younger than 2 months old. Do not use products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD) on children younger than 3 years old.
- Use mosquito netting to protect babies in carriers when outdoors.
- Check window and door screens to make sure they are in good condition and free of holes.
Pool Owners: Prepare your pool for Fall and Winter
- Clean up leaves and debris from the pool and surrounding areas.
- Properly winterize and close the pool according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Secure pool covers. Make sure they fit properly and do not have holes, tears, or gaps.
- Check the cover after rain and remove any water that collects on top.
- Store pool equipment and toys where they cannot collect rainwater.
- Use Mosquito Dunks® in standing water on pool covers, when appropriate, to help prevent mosquito larva from developing.
The RCDOH offers FREE Mosquito Dunks® for use in private, closed, or unused swimming pools. These dunks help to reduce mosquito breeding, and are available by appointment in Pomona, Monday through Friday, while supplies last. Call 845-364-3173 or email wnv@co.rockland.ny.us to arrange a pickup.
Visit the Rockland County Department of Health Mosquito Control webpage for more information.
For more information about West Nile virus, visit the New York State Health Department West Nile Virus webpage.