As summer fades into fall, Rhode Islanders are being urged to remain vigilant against a persistent threat – mosquitoes carrying dangerous diseases. Recent tests have confirmed the presence of West Nile Virus in mosquito samples from three Rhode Island towns, prompting health officials to issue a heightened public health warning.

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) and Department of Health (RIDOH) announced that mosquitoes collected in North Kingstown, Tiverton, and South Kingstown tested positive for West Nile Virus. This brings the total number of West Nile Virus findings in the state this season to nine.

While West Nile Virus is the most common mosquito-borne illness in the continental United States, it’s not the only concern. Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) virus has also been detected in neighboring states, with Massachusetts reporting two human cases and Connecticut confirming an animal case in a deer.

“It’s a particularly active mosquito season in Southern New England,” said a spokesperson for the DEM. “We’re urging all Rhode Islanders to take precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones from mosquito bites.”

The risk isn’t confined to rural areas. The Asian Tiger Mosquito, known for its distinctive black and white striped pattern, has become increasingly common in urban environments. This daytime biter can breed in small containers of standing water, making backyards potential mosquito nurseries.

So how can residents protect themselves? While the knee-jerk reaction might be to reach for a can of bug spray, experts say not all repellents are created equal.

Consumer Reports, which conducts extensive testing on insect repellents, has found that products containing 25-30% DEET consistently provide the most reliable protection against both mosquitoes and ticks. However, for those wary of DEET, there are effective alternatives.

“We’ve found that some sprays using 20% picaridin or 30% oil of lemon eucalyptus can also perform well,” said Chris Regan, test project leader for insect repellents at Consumer Reports. “But it’s important to note that the effectiveness can vary depending on the specific formulation.” Regan cautions against relying on “natural” repellents made with essential oils, which have consistently performed poorly in their tests.

For those concerned about using DEET, it’s worth noting that its safety has been extensively researched by the Environmental Protection Agency. When used as directed, it’s not considered harmful. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that rare problems with DEET usually arise from overuse or using too high a concentration.

Regardless of which repellent you choose, proper application is key. Here are some tips from the experts:

1. Apply a thin coat to all exposed skin, avoiding eyes, mouth, and ears.
2. Adults should apply repellent to their own hands first, then to children, to avoid getting it in their eyes or mouth.
3. Don’t overapply – frequent reapplication isn’t necessary for most repellents.
4. When using spray repellents on your face, spray into your hands first, then apply to your face.
5. If using towelettes, use enough to cover all exposed skin and look for a clear shimmer of fluid on the skin after wiping.

Beyond personal protection, residents can help control mosquito populations by eliminating standing water around their homes. Even small amounts of water in things like buckets, old tires, or clogged gutters can become breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

As we move into fall, it’s tempting to let our guard down against mosquitoes. But health officials warn that the risk persists until the first hard frost. By taking these precautions and staying informed, Rhode Islanders can enjoy the autumn weather while minimizing their risk of mosquito-borne illnesses.

Remember, the best defense against mosquito-borne diseases is a good offense. Stay vigilant, use effective repellents properly, and do your part to reduce mosquito breeding grounds. Your health – and your outdoor enjoyment – may depend on it.