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West Nile Virus

  Mayor Johnny L. DuPree, Ph.D.

Press Release:
Tuesday, July 31, 2012,
For Immediate Release:

West Nile Virus Protection

Hattiesburg-The City of Hattiesburg urges all residents to not let their guards down when it comes to protecting themselves from the West Nile Virus as the Mississippi Health Department has confirmed a new case in West Hattiesburg.

Teaming with the Mississippi Health Department, the City’s Department of Public Works is spraying for mosquitoes and applying larvicide products.  Research shows that eliminating water sources that can breed mosquitoes is the most effective way to reduce the threat of the virus. The Health Department strongly encourages self-protection along with officials’ efforts to help reduce the number of West Nile Virus Cases. To keep your family safe, the Health Department suggests the following:

• Avoid outdoor activities during peak mosquito biting times-mornings and evenings.
• Wear light-colored, long pants and long sleeve shirts when outside.
• Use a DEET-based mosquito repellant. 
• Use mosquito netting when camping outdoors.
• Make sure screens on windows and doors are in good repair with no rips or tears.
• Pick up and haul away all trash piles, broken down washing machines, junk cars, bottles and cans, and related items around houses that can hold water.
• Fill tree holes with mortar or sand.
• Drill holes in the bottom of tire swings.
• Empty or change water in pet dishes, bird baths, horse troughs, etc. at least once a week.
• Keep roof gutters clean.
• Cover rain barrels with screening.
• Fill-in low lying areas in your yard that may hold standing water.
• Repair failed septic systems.
• Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, even if not in use.
• Keep drains, ditches and culverts free of debris and grass clippings and trash so water can drain properly.

For more information, please contact the City of Hattiesburg Department of Public Works at 601.545.4545 or visit www.healthyms.com.