“This is the time of year when children and adults are at evening outdoor activities like concerts and sporting events,” noted John Walker, public health officer for Stanislaus County. “Sunset is a time for peak mosquito activity, and people should start to develop the habit of wearing mosquito repellant containing DEET.”

Football, softball and soccer are just some of the popular outdoor activities that can occur in the evening. People who enjoy outdoor activities like hunting and fishing should also take note.

The task force recommends wearing mosquito repellant with 25% or greater DEET for evening outdoor evening activities. DEET concentrations between 10% and 30% are commonly available. The greater the percentage of DEET, the longer the repellant provides protection. Always follow package instructions when applying mosquito repellant to children.

Other important West Nile virus points include:

• Drain standing water from old tires, buckets, cans or flower
• Avoid being outdoors during times of peak mosquito activity hours (between dusk and dawn)
• Dress appropriately. Wear long sleeves and pants during when possible.
• Fix broken screens on windows and doors so mosquitoes can’t get in.

Stanislaus County has a hotline with recorded information at 558-8425. Information is available on the web at www.hsahealth.org.