Oswego County Reports EEEV Found in West Monroe

OSWEGO COUNTY – The Oswego County Health Department reported today that, although mosquito season is winding down, Eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEEV) continues to be found near the Toad Harbor Swamp on the north shore of Oneida Lake. A mosquito sample collected on Sept. 17 in the town of West Monroe has tested positive for EEEV.

“The mosquito population may be dwindling, but we know that they remain in our environment until the first heavy frost,” said Oswego County Public Health Director Vera Dunsmoor. “That’s why it’s so important for people to continue following personal protective measures to prevent mosquito bites when they’re out enjoying fall activities.”

People are advised to limit outdoor activities around dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active; and wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, shoes and socks when outdoors.

Using an insect repellent when outdoors is another form of personal protection from mosquito bites. Those that contain DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus are most effective. Those that contain permethrin are meant for clothing and gear and should not be applied directly to the skin. If you use a repellent, be sure to read the product label and follow package instructions.

Homeowners should repair or replace any broken screens around the home and cover rain barrels with screens to keep mosquitoes out.

Reduce mosquito habitat around the home by emptying or disposing of any water-holding containers, changing the water in birdbaths and horse troughs twice a week, cleaning out clogged gutters and removing vegetation and leaf debris from yards, gardens and the edge of ponds.

Remember to dispose of old tires as they are a significant mosquito breeding site and use mosquito dunk kits in certain situations to reduce mosquito populations. Call the Oswego County Solid Waste Department at 315-591-9200 to learn how to dispose of used tires for a fee; and call the Oswego County Soil and Water Conservation District at 315-592-9663 to purchase a mosquito dunk kit for $5.

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/.

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