Indiana Department of Health have urge people to take precautions against mosquitoes after rare virus was found in the state.

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The Indiana Department of Health is urging Indiana residents to take precautions against mosquitoes after a rare virus was detected in Northern Indiana. The virus is known as Eastern Equine Encephalitis (or EEE). Since mid August 3 horses and a group of mosquitoes from Elkhart County tested positive for EEE virus.

The good news is currently in Indiana no human cases of EEE virus have been reported in 2019.  However in Michigan this year 3 human cases have been reported and one case was fatal.  So health officials are urging Indiana residents to protect themselves against mosquitoes.

“EEE, or triple-E, virus is rare but extremely serious. It can cause long-term complications and even death,” said Jennifer Brown, D.V.M., M.P.H., state public health veterinarian at the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH). “You can protect yourself from EEE virus and other viruses by taking steps to prevent mosquito bites whenever you spend time outdoors. You can also reduce the risk for yourself and your neighbors by eliminating mosquito breeding sites from your property. (Indiana Department of Health)

Here's what the Indiana Department of Health recommends to protect yourself against mosquitoes:

  • Avoid being outdoors when mosquitoes are active (especially late afternoon, dusk to dawn and early morning)
  • Use an EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus or para-menthane-diol on clothes and exposed skin
  • Cover exposed skin by wearing a hat, long sleeves and long pants in places where mosquitoes are especially active, such as wooded areas
  • Install or repair screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out of your home

They also recommend taking steps on your property to avoid creating mosquito breeding grounds. You can find more tips, and read more about EEE virus by clicking here.

 

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