Georgia Public Health officials are warning Georgians about West Nile virus and the importance of insect repellant this time of year.. Mosquitoes carry the deadly disease. 

 

West Nile is considered an endemic in this part of the country, according to Logan Boss, spokesman for Northwest Georgia Public Health. 

Nine cases of West Nile virus reported in Georgia this year, Boss said, but none have led to deaths. However, no cases have been reported in Chattooga  County or in the 10-county Northwest Georgia Health District this year. This includes Floyd, Bartow, Polk, Chattooga, Gordon, Catoosa, Paulding, Walker, Dade and Haralson counties.

The Georgia season for West Nile virus reaches its peak in September and lasts until the first hard freeze of winter, Boss said.

With the recent rains and stifling temperatures, mosquitoes continue to breed by the millions. 

Using insect repellent decreases an individual’s chances of being bitten, but the best way to eradicate mosquitoes near homes is to eliminate any standing water, according to officials. .

Any water that can’t be eliminated, Mickler said, should be treated with larvaecides, along with spraying the shrubbery around your homes with an insecticide every 10 to 14 days until the mosquitoes are gone.

Because mosquitoes are the most active at dawn and dusk, limiting skin exposure during these times is highly recommended. it is also recommended that you wear light-colored, loose fitting clothing helps because mosquitoes are attracted to dark clothing,