You might pack bug spray for a hike in the mountains, but you actually need it just as much when you sit on your own back patio. Many Utahns do not realize that the biggest mosquito threat often waits right outside their own front door.
Health officials track mosquito activity closely, and the current data tells us to pay attention today. We see a much earlier West Nile Virus season this year than we typically do. Mosquito abatement teams already detect the virus in six different counties across the state. Furthermore, health departments report Utah’s first human case of the season. The typical West Nile virus season lasts through September, so Utahns should start taking preventative steps today and create a habit to protect against mosquitoes throughout the summer.
Fortunately, you can protect your family easily. Public health experts rely on the “3 Ds” of mosquito bite prevention:
- Defend: Doctors have no cure for West Nile, so bug spray acts as your best medicine. Whenever you head outside, protect yourself with an EPA-registered repellent like DEET or Picaridin.
- Dress: These mosquitoes bite most actively at dawn and dusk. If you relax on the patio in the evening, go for a hike in the morning, or work in your garden as the sun sets, throw on long, loose-fitting sleeves and pants to protect your skin.
- Drain: Mosquitoes breed in tiny amounts of water—even just a bottle-cap full. Take five minutes this week to walk your yard and dump out any standing water. Check your pet bowls, plant saucers, and kids’ toys.
Treat bug spray like sunscreen this summer. Put a bottle right next to your back door today. This helps you remember to put it on before you head outside, especially at dawn or dusk—even if you just sit on your front porch.
To learn more about West Nile virus prevention, visit the Utah DHHS West Nile Virus website. If you have specific mosquito concerns, you can find your local mosquito abatement at the Utah Mosquito Abatement Association.
