How to prevent mosquitos and West Nile Virus

Controlling mosquito populations is the best method to reduce the spread of West Nile virus.

Mosquitoes are known to spread several viral agents that can cause human disease. Protect yourself from West Nile virus by protecting yourself from mosquito bites. Fight the bite by following these suggestions:

• At dawn and dusk, wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts and other protective clothing.
  
  
• Apply insect repellent according to label instructions Products containing DEET, Picaridin, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus have been shown to last longer than other products.
  
  
• Mosquitoes can breed in as little as a tablespoon of water. Eliminate all sources of standing water on your property that can support mosquito breeding. Recycle used tires and cover containers where water can collect.
  
  
• Mosquito-proof your home: Make sure that doors and windows have tight fitting screens. Replace screens that have tears or holes. Clean out rain gutters and keep drains clear.
  
  
• Use mosquito fish or mosquito dunks in ponds and birdbaths. Mosquito dunks can be found at many hardware and garden supply stores.
  
  
• San Francisco residents can pick up free mosquito larvae-eating mosquito fish for their ponds or birdbaths by calling the San Mateo County Mosquito & Vector Control District at (650) 344-8592.
  
  
• Contact the San Francisco Department of Public Health at (415) 252-3806 if there is a significant mosquito problem where you live.
  
  
• Report dead birds to the California Department of Health Services by calling, toll-free, 877-WNV-BIRD (877-968-2473). Detection of West Nile virus in dead birds is often the first indication that the virus has moved to a new region.
  
  
• Mosquito fact sheet
  mosquitoes.php
  
  
• More on mosquitoes
  mosquito_factsheet.pdf