OSWEGO COUNTY – The Oswego County Health Department reported today (Aug. 31) that the Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus was found in a mosquito sample collected during routine testing on Toad Harbor Road in West Monroe.
The sample was collected Aug. 24 by the Oswego County Health Department in the same area that EEE was found last week.
Oswego County Public Health Director Jiancheng Huang said that although mosquito numbers are low due to the dry weather, it is very important for people to continue to take actions that will minimize their risk of being bitten by mosquitoes.
“The EEE virus is present in our environment,” he said. “Residents need to remain diligent in taking personal protection measures and in reducing mosquito breeding sites around their homes until we receive the first hard frost.”
The Oswego County Health Department continues to work with the state Department of Health to monitor EEE virus activities.
Residents are advised to:
· Use insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus according to the product label’s instructions for children and adults;
· Continue to limit outdoor activities between dusk and dawn; wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, shoes and socks when outdoors;
· Drain standing water around the home to reduce mosquito breeding sites; and
· Fix worn window and door screens to prevent mosquitos from entering the home.
For more information about EEE and other viruses transmitted by mosquitoes, call the Oswego County Health Department at 315-349-3564 or 1-800-596-3200, ext.3564 between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. or visit the New York State Department of Health Web site at www.health.state.ny.us/diseases/communicable/eastern_equine_encephalitis/fact_sheet.htm
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