Warm weather is here, and most people are finding time to spend outdoors in this nice weather. The warm weather also brings out pests, such as ticks and mosquitoes, that can spread illnesses. Illnesses that may result from tick and mosquito bites can range from mild to severe and, in some cases, can even be fatal.
Prevention is the key to avoiding complications from insect bites and allows you to safely enjoy your outdoor experience. The Cole County Health Department wants to remind the community to take simple steps to prevent illnesses that are spread by ticks, mosquitoes and other insects when they spend time outdoors.
Prevention methods include correctly using insect repellent, wearing light colored long sleeves and pants, and looking closely for ticks or reactions to insect bites on your skin after being outdoors.
To increase outdoor enjoyment around your home, make sure to eliminate the habitat that mosquitoes, ticks and chiggers thrive in. Reduce the tall vegetation where blood sucking insects like to hang out looking for a host. Mosquitoes and ticks prefer moist areas, and mosquitoes often use standing water to lay their eggs. Remove items that collect stagnant water and you will reduce mosquito breeding grounds. CCHD encourages safely enjoying the outdoors with these simple safety precautions. Mowing and weed-eating your property will not only look nice but should also reduce your chances of getting unwanted insect bites.
Joe Gassner is the environmental supervisor at the Cole County Health Department where he has worked for five years. He previously worked with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources as an environmental specialist and environmental manager for more than 25 years.