Mosquito-borne illness alert issued for Marion County

MARION COUNTY, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Marion County is warning residents of another confirmed case of the West Nile virus.

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Health officials said there have been four cases of the mosquito-borne illness since July 2024.

DOH-Marion and the Marion County Board of County Commissioners will conduct ultra-low volume sprays in specific areas.

There are some precautions from health officials that can help avoid mosquito bites.

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See the tips below:

Protect yourself with insect repellant

  • Read labels carefully before using repellant.
  • Always apply insect repellant to exposed skin or clothing, not under clothing.
  • Look for repellants that are suitable for children
  • Treat clothing and gear with products containing 0.5% permethrin. Do not apply permethrin to your skin.

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Stop mosquitos from breeding

  • Mosquitos breed near standing water.
  • Repair holes in screens.
  • Keep doors and exterior windows closed.
  • Use air conditioning
  • Keep screens on all windows.
  • At least once a week, empty or cover these things that can hold standing water: buckets, toys, child pools, pool covers, birdbaths, trash and recycling bins, boats, car covers, roof gutters, coolers, tires, and pet dishes.

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