There are more than 60 species of mosquitoes in South Carolina. Not all of them are biters but some that do can pose serious health risks to people and animals by spreading disease.
West Nile is the most common concern for people. In many cases, only mild flu-like symptoms develop. However, more severe illnesses can occur which can be fatal.
The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) says there are simple ways to help prevent the spread of mosquito-borne illnesses. DPH recommends following the 7 Ts:
- Tip or turn over anything that can hold water, big or small, to disrupt mosquito breeding cycles.
- Toss or recycle unwanted yard items that can collect water.
- Tighten tarps over items like boats, wood piles, grills, and pools.
- Take care of your property. Clean out debris from ditches, drains, and gutters. Keep grass cut low and trim or remove overgrown plants.
- Treat items that can’t be drained or emptied with appropriate mosquito control products.
- Team up with neighbors to reduce mosquitoes in and around your home and neighborhood.
DPH does not perform mosquito control, but the agency does offer numerous resources to help residents, communities and local mosquito control programs take action to reduce mosquito populations and prevent bites.
Additionally, DPH's Mosquito-Borne Disease Dashboard provides comprehensive data related to cases and rates of West Nile virus, malaria, and dengue among South Carolinians. Also, the agency's Mosquito-Borne Disease Viewer features data on the most current case counts of mosquito-borne disease in birds, mosquitoes and certain animals.