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Warning out vs mosquito-, rat-borne bacteria
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Posted on Aug 13 2008
With the onset of the rainy season, the Bureau of Environmental Health is advising the public to follow preventive guidelines as protection from the increased risk of bacterial and insect- and rodent-related infection.
The bureau suggests that residents avoid lowland and inland swimming holes. These areas are likely to contain harmful bacteria levels and can pose health risks to frequent visitors. Avoid standing in stagnant water.
Residents should remove all artificial breeding areas for mosquitoes and rodents. Avoid all standing water or pools of water, and remove them if possible. Stagnant pools of water serve as breeding areas for disease-carrying mosquitoes, insects and rodents. Remove and dispose of old tires, opened bottles and used cans to prevent harborage. Clean up yards to remove food, breeding and hiding spots for rodents, insects and mosquitoes.
Wear protective clothing in the early morning (dawn) and at dusk (sundown). Most mosquitoes bite during the early morning and evening hours. Wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts if you insist on being outside during these periods. Dress your children accordingly, or try to limit the time your children spend outside during these period.
Residents are encouraged to practice proper hygiene regularly. As always, wash hands frequently and cover gaping bodily wounds properly.
If a family member experiences fever with a headache, body aches and rash, contact a doctor immediately.
The bureau also offers useful advice on how to avoid mosquito breeding areas and how to properly remove harborage areas. Should you have further questions or concerns, visit the bureau’s office on Navy Hill or contact at 664-4870/72. [B][I](BEH)[/I][/B]
