West Nile Virus Infected Mosquitoes Found in Licking County
Friday, July 2, 2010 at 5:24PM The Licking County Health Department reported the first evidence of West Nile Virus (WNV) in Licking County for 2010. One pool of mosquitoes collected from traps monitored by the health department tested positive for WNV.
The mosquitoes were collected in a trap located on Buckeye Avenue in Newark. The Health Department conducted mosquito spaying in this area on June 30 and has scheduled a second spraying for July 1.
Licking County Health Commissioner, Joe Ebel, reports, "Our department performs surveillance activities throughout the summer and fall in order to identify other potential areas affected by WNV." Ebel added,"Licking County is the second county in Ohio to find West Nile Virus in mosquitoes this year, and while there have been no WNV positive bird, horse or human cases in Licking County so far this year, this finding affirms the need for residents to take steps to protect themselves against mosquito bites and eliminate standing water to reduce their chances being infected by WNV."
All residents are encouraged to take the following personal protection measures to protect themselves and their loved ones against possible WNV infection:
- To avoid possible infection from mosquito bites:
- Avoid outdoor activities between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active; if you must be outdoors, be sure to wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, shoes and socks.
- Wear light colored clothing as mosquitoes are generally attracted to dark colors.
- If you are outside when mosquitoes are active, use a mosquito repellent and always follow the label directions.
- To eliminate mosquito breeding sites near your home:
- Eliminate all areas of standing water from your property such as discarded tires and other water-holding containers like tin cans and unused flower pots.
- Make sure all roof gutters are clean and properly draining.
- Clean and chlorinate pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs. Keep them empty when not in use and drain water from pool covers.
- Change water in bird baths or other containers weekly.
For more information, contact the Licking County Health Department at (740) 349-6535 or visit www.lickingcohealth.org.
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