(CHCC) — During the rainy season in CNMI, there is an increased risk of mosquito-borne diseases due to the large amount of standing water that provides breeding grounds for mosquitoes. To protect you and your family, it is important to eliminate potential breeding sites around your home, use insect repellent, wear protective clothing, and seek medical attention if you experience symptoms like fever, rash, or body pain.
Here are a few simple steps you and your family can take to stay protected:
• Eliminate breeding sites. Regularly check for and remove any standing water around your home, including flowerpots, tires, and clogged gutters. Empty and clean containers that collect rainwater to stop mosquitoes from laying eggs.
• Use insect repellents. Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or IR3535, especially when outdoors, particularly during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
• Wear protective clothing. Cover your skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants, especially If you’re spending time outside.
• Seek early medical care. If you notice symptoms like fever, rash, headache, muscle pain, or joint pain, don’t wait — seek a healthcare provider right away. Early care can make a big difference.
• Maintain hygiene. Practice good hygiene such as washing hands regularly with soap and water, covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze and sanitation practices such as disposing of trash properly, drinking clean, safe water to prevent the spread of illnesses.
By taking these precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of mosquito bites and mosquito-borne illness during the rainy season in CNMI.
For more information, contact the CHCC Environmental Health and Disease Prevention unit at (670) 236-2022/27/28 or email John Tagabuel at john.tagabuel@chcc.health.. You can also follow CHCC on Facebook and Instagram at @cnmichcc, visit www.chcc.health or call (670) 234-8950.
