State health officials have tips to limit spread of mosquitos

Summer means mosquitos in South Carolina.

Columbia, S.C. (WOLO)– Summer means mosquitos in South Carolina.
Officials with the State Department of Public Health say there are 61 different species of mosquitos in the Palmetto State.
Often, mosquitoes are simply a nuisance, but some species can pose serious health risks to people and animals by spreading disease.
The most common mosquito borne illnesses are west nile, eastern equine encephalitis, la crosse encephalitis, saint louis encephalitis virus, and heartworm in dogs and cats.

Mosquitoes can develop in water that stands for more than 5 days. DPH recommends following the “7 Ts” to keep your home and yard mosquito-free:

• TIP over anything that can hold water, such as toys, plant saucers or vases. To disrupt mosquito breeding cycles, change water often, even daily, in items like dog bowls and bird baths.
• TOSS or recycle any unwanted yard items that may collect water, such as old tires, junk, or trash.
• TURN over items that can hold water like children’s pools, wheelbarrows, or buckets.
• TIGHTEN tarps over items like boats, wood piles, grills, and pools.
• TAKE CARE of your property. Clean out debris from ditches, drains, and gutters. Keep grass cut low and trim or remove overgrown plants.
• TREAT items that can’t be drained or emptied with appropriate mosquito control products.
• TEAM UP and talk with neighbors about reducing mosquitoes in and around your home and neighborhood.