Contact: Marilyn Piety, 240-777-1394
For Immediate Release: July 3, 2001

County Health Officials Urge Citizens
To Protect Against Mosquitoes

County health officials are urging citizens to protect themselves against mosquito bites as they plan summertime activities such as attending fireworks displays, evening cookouts and sporting events.

“Mosquitoes are most active at dusk so we’re advising people to wear long sleeves and long pants while they’re outdoors,” said Lynn Frank, chief of Public Health Services, Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services. “Mosquitoes can often play a role in causing disease such as West Nile virus.”

Insect repellants should be used sparingly and with caution, if at all. It is best to spray repellents on clothing before you put them on. Never spray repellants directly on the skin of children under three years old or on the hands of children of any age who may put their hands in their mouths.

For more information about West Nile Virus, visit Montgomery County’s Department of Environmental Protection web site at www.askdep.com and click on the mosquito icon.