The Alabama Department of Public Health is advising caution to protect against mosquito bites after heavy rainfall and storm events. For most of the state, mosquitoes are more abundant from late spring to early fall and can transmit viruses such as West Nile virus and Eastern equine encephalitis virus that can infect people. Large amounts of rainfall from a tropical storm system may create an environment for mosquito populations to flourish, posing a risk to those working outdoors after the storm or simply enjoying outdoor activities.

To date, ADPH reports 13 human cases of WNV. The best defense against these diseases is to prevent mosquito bites by:

— Using insect repellents.

— Wearing long sleeves and long pants when possible.

— Wearing loose-fitting, light-colored clothes.

— Treating clothing with repellents.

— Using air conditioning or screens on windows and doors.

Mosquito Control Outside Your Home

Flooding caused by hurricanes, tropical storm systems and heavy rainstorms can be severe. In the weeks after flooding, nuisance or floodwater mosquito populations are expected to increase. Therefore, residents can take steps to help control the mosquito population after a storm or flood.

Tip n’ Toss: Mosquitoes tend to lay eggs near standing water. Once a week, empty and scrub, turn over, cover or throw out any items that hold water. These include tires, buckets, planters, toys, pools, birdbaths or trash containers. Tightly cover buckets, cisterns and rain barrels. If a container has no lid, cover it with wire mesh with holes. Holes need to be smaller than an adult mosquito.

If you have a septic tank, repair cracks or gaps. Use larvicides if: a body of water is large, water will not be used for drinking or cannot be covered or dumped out.

Visit the ADPH mosquito-borne diseases webpage: alabamapublichealth.gov/mosquito/and cdc.gov/mosquitoes/prevention/ to learn how to help prevent mosquito bites.