Hillsborough County is one of several locations in Florida where individuals have been identified with the Zika virus.  All of those infected acquired the illness while traveling internationally.  At this time there are no cases of locally acquired Zika reported in Florida, and we have no reason to believe our local mosquito population is carrying the virus. Hillsborough County Mosquito Control operates in coordination with the Florida Department of Health to implement policies and procedures to prevent and control the spread of mosquito-borne illnesses.

Avoiding mosquito bites is the best prevention against Zika. Mosquito Control sprays insecticides to kill  mosquitoes, but we always need the public’s help to remove breeding habitats in residential areas.

Here’s how you can help:

• Drain: water from garbage cans, gutters, pool covers, coolers, toys, flower pots, or any other containers where water has collected.
• Discard: Old tires, drums, bottles, cans, pots and pans, broken appliances, and other items that aren’t being used.
• Empty and Clean: Birdbaths and pets’ water bowls at least once or twice a week.
• Protect: Boats and vehicles from rain with tarps that don’t accumulate water.
• Maintain: The water balance (pool chemistry) of swimming pools. Empty plastic swimming pools when not in use. Repair broken screens on windows, doors, porches, and patios.
• Clothing: Cover up – always wear socks and shoes, long pants, and long-sleeved sleeves.
• Repellent: Apply mosquito repellent to bare skin and clothing. Always use repellents according to the label.
• Travelers returning from international locations are cautioned to wear mosquito repellent for two weeks after they return home.

For information on the Zika virus & mosquito bite prevention:www.floridahealth.gov/diseases-and-conditions/zika-virus/index.html.

For tips to help eliminate backyard mosquito breeding sites:www.HillsboroughCounty.org/MosquitoNinja.