Stating that there could be a rise in the population of the floodwater mosquito, Banwell said, “It’s going to be very bad compared to last year.” Banwell’s warning should be cause for considering, especially after his accompanying explanation that the floodwater mosquito was more aggressive than the other breeds, more than 50 of which can be found in Wisconsin.
Banwell also asked residents in the affected areas to wear clothing that would help protect against mosquito bites, basically shirts with long sleeves and also long pants. Such protection is especially necessary considering it was possible to contract the West Nile Virus through mosquito bites.
Asserting that the situation had not led to an increased possibility of a West Nile Virus outbreak, Banwell advised caution nevertheless. Other precautions to take, according to him, included staying away from shaded areas, using bug lights, and having a big fan outside so mosquitoes would stay away.
A very good way of ensuring minimal risk of disease was to ensure there was no standing water around, Banwell said. While all these precautions would ensure there was reduced threat of a mosquito borne infection, there were other things to worry about as well, including unsafe drinking water, possible injuries through contact with dangerous articles hidden underwater and the possibility of drowning.
The department has also issued specific directives as guidelines for driving in or through flooded areas. These include driving carefully and obeying signage posted near areas immersed under water, leaving your car behind should it stall and die in an area covered by floodwater, avoiding contact at all times with power lines and anything that conducts electricity and also informing authorities should you know about power lines that have drowned in your area.
The department also issued a directive asking residents to use chlorinated water, especially water drawn from wells to avoid the chances of consuming contaminated water.
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