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Rockland County Health Department Begins Mosquito Prevention

Rockland County Executive Ed Day and County Health Commissioner Dr. Patricia Schnabel Ruppert advise residents that the Health Department has begun treating catch basins and storm drains to prevent mosquitoes from breeding in the standing water inside of these structures. 

The county is working to eliminate breeding sites for mosquitoes who can carry several diseases.

The county is working to eliminate breeding sites for mosquitoes who can carry several diseases.

Photo Credit: File photo

Work will continue throughout the Ccounty through the end of May. Residents are urged to avoid parking over storm drains during the treatment work so crews can access the catch basins more easily.

"Mosquitoes can carry several diseases, including West Nile Virus and dog heartworm. The Asian Tiger mosquito, which we have in Rockland County, may be able to spread other viruses, including the Zika virus, though this is not certain at this time. Even the smallest amount of standing water can serve as a breeding site for mosquitoes. Mosquitoes lay eggs in these sites and they hatch within a few days," said Ruppert.

Follow these tips to help prevent mosquitoes from breeding on your property:

  • Check your property for any items that can hold water. Get rid of the items or empty the water out and scrub the inside of the item at least once a week.
  • Drill drain holes in the bottoms of recycling containers, turn over wading pools and wheelbarrows when not in use, and remove all discarded tires.
  • If you have a swimming pool that is not in use, drain the water off the cover or treat this standing water with Mosquito Dunks, available free of charge at the Health Department.
  • Tightly cover water storage containers (buckets, cisterns, rain barrels) so that mosquitoes cannot get inside to lay eggs.
  • Use an outdoor flying insect spray where mosquitoes rest. When using insecticides, always follow label instructions.
  • If you have a septic tank, repair cracks or gaps. Cover open vent or plumbing pipes. Use wire mesh with holes smaller than an adult mosquito.
  • Make sure that roof gutters drain.
  • Clear vegetation and debris from the edges of ponds and remove leaf debris from yards and gardens.

To learn more click here or call the Health Department at 845-364-3173.

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