The Texas Department of State Health Services recommends the following precautions to help avoid serious illness from the current mosquito infection. Remember these “Four D’s” for your defense against exposure to West Nile virus infected mosquitoes:

DUSK/DAWN are the times of day you should try to stay indoors. This is when infected mosquitoes are most active.

DRESS in long sleeves and pants when you’re outside. For extra protection, you may want to spray thin clothing with repellent.

DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide) is an ingredient to look for in your insect repellent. Other approved repellents include picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus and IR3535. Follow label instructions and always wear repellent when outdoors.

DRAIN standing water in your backyard and neighborhood - old tires, flowerpots and clogged rain gutters. These are mosquito breeding sites. Drain and refill outside pet water containers every day.

If you would like more information you may call the Live Oak County Health Department (449-2733 ext. 1024).