OSWEGO COUNTY – The New York State Department of Health today notified the Oswego County Health Department that a mosquito sample taken from the town of Palermo has tested positive for Eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEEV).
“While the mosquito population will be decreasing over the coming weeks, mosquitoes will continue to be active in the environment until the first heavy frost,” said Oswego County Public Health Director Vera Dunsmoor. “It’s important for people to continue using protection measures such as limiting outdoor activities between dusk and dawn (when mosquitoes are usually more active) and wearing protective clothing (long sleeves, pants, socks and shoes) when outdoors to prevent mosquito bites.”
Using insect repellents that contain DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus are also effective protection measures. People must read the product label and follow package instructions as repellents that contain permethrin are meant for clothing and gear and should not be applied directly to the skin.
Residents are also advised to reduce mosquito breeding sites around their homes and properties by emptying or disposing of water-holding containers, including old tires, and using dunk kits in some circumstances to reduce mosquito populations. They should also be sure to install or repair all door and window screens to keep mosquitoes outside.
Used tires are accepted at Oswego County transfer stations for a charge. Contact the Oswego County Solid Waste Department at 315-591-9200 for details.
Homeowners can pick up a free mosquito dunk kit at the front desk of the Oswego County Health Department, entrance B, 70 Bunner St., Oswego; at the Oswego County Soil and Water Conservation District’s front door, 3105 NYS Rte. 3, Fulton; or at local municipalities. Each kit contains a larvicide to be used only in certain situations and according to the directions provided. For details, call 315-592-9663 or go to www.oswegosoilandwater.com.
The county and state health departments will continue to monitor mosquito populations and virus activity in Oswego County.
For more information about protecting your family against mosquitoes, call the Oswego County Health Department at 315-349-3547 or visit the New York State Department of Health website at http://www.health.ny.gov/publications/2731/.