August Mosquito Alert Gainesville from Alachua County Health Department

August 4, 2010 2:10 p.m.
This release sent at the request of the Alachua County Health Department.

ALACHUA COUNTY, FL - The Alachua County Health Department (ACHD) has detected mosquito borne diseases in the County. "Our sentinel
surveillance system indicates that disease transmission is occurring," stated Anthony Dennis, Environmental Health Director at the
ACHD. "Taking a few simple steps can drastically reduce the chances of contracting
a mosquito-borne illness."

Symptoms of West Nile virus (WNV) infection and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) may include headache, fever, fatigue, dizziness,
weakness, and confusion. Physicians should contact ACHD if they suspect an individual may have a mosquito-
borne illness.

Florida Department of Health (FDOH) laboratories provide testing services for physicians treating patients with clinical signs of
mosquito-borne diseases.

The ACHD continues to advise citizens to remain diligent in protecting themselves from mosquito bites by following the "5 D's,"
which include:

* Drainage - Check aroundyour home to rid the area of standing water, which is where mosquitoes can lay their eggs.

* DEET - When the potential exists for exposure to mosquitoes, repellents containing DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide, or
N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide)are recommended. Picaridin and oil of lemon eucalyptus are other repellent options.

* Dress - Wear clothing that coversmost ofyour skin.

* Dusk and Dawn - Avoid being outdoors when mosquitoes are most active.

For more information on mosquito borne illnesses, visit the ACHD website at www.AlachuaCountyHealth.org