We hear lots of information about mosquito-borne illnesses, especially during the summer months when mosquitos are most active. While there is still no local transmission of the Zika virus in Georgia, it’s still important to do your part to keep mosquitoes away this summer.

Here are some easy steps you can take to reduce the mosquito population around your home and protect yourself from bites while outdoors:

• Use the tip ‘n toss technique to eliminate areas where mosquitos lay their eggs. After every rainfall, tip out water in flowerpots, planters, children’s toys and wading pools, and buckets. If it holds water and you don’t need it (old tires, bottles, cans), toss it out.
• Look for small bodies of water such as drainage ponds, tree stumps, and tire ruts. Clean out gutters, remove piles of leaves, and keep vegetation cut low to prevent landing sites for adult mosquitoes.
• For containers without lids or are too big to tip ‘n toss (bird baths, garden pools), use larvicides such as mosquito dunks or mosquito torpedoes and follow the label instructions. Larvicides will not hurt birds or animals.
• Report illegal dumpsites near your neighborhood or workplace. Illegal dumpsites in Gwinnett County may be reported to the Gwinnett County Police Quality of Life Unit online or by phone at 770.513.5004.  
• Use EPA-approved insect repellent when you are outdoors. You may also consider wearing light-colored, long-sleeved shirts, pants, and socks when outdoors.

The Gwinnett County Health Department website has information about the Zika virus and how to limit your exposure to mosquitoes. In addition, check out these videos for more tips on how to reduce the mosquito population around your home and landscape this summer.