Fight the Bite!

The Macon County Health Department continues to work with community partners to “Fight the Bite” in Macon County.  Through larviciding efforts and education measures we can reduce the incidence of West Nile Virus in our county.

Prevention measures can reduce the risk of West Nile Virus:

  • Get rid of old tires, tin cans, buckets, drums, bottles or any water-holding containers.
  • Fill in or drain low places (puddles, ruts, etc.) in the yard.
  • Keep drains, ditches and culverts free of weeds and trash so water will drain properly.
  • Keep roof gutters free of leaves and other debris.
  • Cover trash containers to keep out rainwater.
  • Repair leaky pipes and outside faucets.
  • Empty plastic wading pools at least once a week and store indoors when not in use.
  • Unused swimming pools should be drained and kept dry during the mosquito season.
  • Fill in tree rot holes and hollow stumps that hold water.
  • Change the water in birdbaths and plant pots or drip trays at least once each week.
  • Store boats covered or upside down, or remove rainwater weekly.
  • Keep grass cut short and shrubbery well trimmed around the house so adult mosquitoes will not hide there.
  • Make sure ornamental ponds have fish that eat mosquito larvae.
  • Repair window screens.
  • When outdoors in the evening or when mosquitoes are biting, use personal protection measures to prevent mosquito bites (proper use of insect repellent and appropriate clothing).

Other Links of Interest:
 Disease Maps (USGS)
 West Nile (IDPH)