Prevent West Nile Virus


The Virginia Department of Health is encouraging the public to eliminate mosquito breeding areas around the home.  The species of mosquitos most likely to carry West Nile virus can breed in your own backyard.

Control Mosquitos from Breeding

  • Turn over or remove containers in your yard where rainwater collects, such as potted plant trays, buckets or toys.
  • Empty birdbaths once a week.
  • Remove old tires from your yard.
  • Drain wading pools often.
  • Clean roof gutters and downspout screens.
  • Eliminate standing water on flat roofs.
  • Do not allow water to collect in garbage cans.

Protect Yourself and Your Family

  • Wear long, loose and light-colored clothing.
  • If possible, stay indoors when mosquitos are biting.
  • Use insect repellent products with no more than 20-30 percent DEET for adults and less than 10 percent for children.
  • Only adults should apply repellent on children.
  • Spray repellent on your hands and then apply to your face.
  • Only apply repellent to exposed skin and clothing.  Do not use repellent under clothing.
  • Do not apply repellent over cuts, wounds, sunburn, or irritated skin.
  • Wash off repellent daily and reapply as needed.

Web Sites

For more information contact the Prince George Health Department or the Virginia Cooperative Extension of Prince George.

Information provided by Virginia Department of Health.

Want to be emailed when this page is updated?

Sign Up Now