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The Florida Department of Health works to protect, promote, and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county, and community efforts.

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Mosquito Bite Prevention

For questions, requests and comments, contact the STD section at:

  •  850-653-2111
  •  

    Fax

    850-653-9896
  •  

    Mailing Address

    Florida Department of Health Franklin County 

    139 12th St 

    Apalachicola, FL 32320 

Drain and Cover to protect yourself from mosquito bites and the dangerous diseases they carry. Learn more about West Nile Virus.

Drain standing water from:

  • Garbage Cans
  • Pool Covers
  • Flower Pots
  • Buckets and Watering Cans
  • Kiddie Pools

Practice these tips to avoid mosquito breeding:

  • Discard old tires, bottles, pots, broken appliances and other items that may collect water.
  • Empty and clean birdbaths and pets’ water bowls at least once or twice a week.
  • Protect boats and vehicles from rain with tarps that do not accumulate water.
  • Maintain swimming pools in good condition and chlorination.

These simple steps can prevent mosquitoes from living and multiplying around your home.

Cover your skin with clothing or insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites.

  • Choose insect repellents that contain DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535.
  • Apply repellent when you are going outdoors. Even if you do not notice mosquitoes there is a good chance they are around.
  • Re-apply repellent if you are bit by mosquitoes. Always follow the directions on the product you are using. Sweating, perspiration or getting wet may indicate a need to re-apply repellent more frequently.
  • For children, spray your hands first and then rub the repellent on the child’s skin. Use mosquito netting for children under two months of age.

Additional Resources

Additional Resources

CDC: West Nile Virus

Drain and Cover Poster (4.8mb; jpg)

Environmental Protection Agency Mosquito Control

Franklin County Mosquito Control Division: (850) 670-8730

FloridaHealth: Mosquito-borne Diseases in Florida