West Nile Virus Found in West Monroe

OSWEGO COUNTY – The Oswego County Health Department reported today that two new mosquito samples have tested positive for the West Nile Virus (WNV) in the town of West Monroe.

“While the days are becoming shorter and the temperatures are beginning to dip, mosquitoes and the threat of mosquito-borne diseases remain in the environment until the first hard frost of the season,” said Oswego County Public Health Director Vera Dunsmoor. “Residents and visitors must continue to use personal protective measures to prevent mosquito bites as they enjoy outdoor activities during the nice fall weather.”

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 containing DEET, picaridin and oil of lemon eucalyptus are all effective. Repellents containing 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.

“The dry weather we’ve experienced in recent weeks also helps keep the mosquito population down,” said Oswego County Public Health Associate Sanitarian Chris Williams. “While people may not see them as frequently, remember that mosquitoes are still active until the first heavy frost. That’s why it’s so important for people to remain vigilant in preventing mosquito bites and reducing mosquito habitats around their homes.”

He suggests people:

• Clean out clogged gutters so they drain properly.
• Remove vegetation and leaf debris from yards, gardens and the edge of ponds.
• Use landscaping to eliminate standing water that collects on your property.
• Change the water in birdbaths and horse troughs twice a week.
• Empty or dispose of pails, cans, flowerpots, or similar water-holding containers.
• Drill holes in the bottoms of recycling containers that are kept outdoors.
• Turn over wheelbarrows and wading pools when not in use.
• Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, saunas and hot tubs and drain pool covers.
• Dispose of old tires. Used tires are a significant mosquito breeding site and can be accepted at some local transfer stations for a fee. For details, call the Oswego County Solid Waste Department at 315-591-9200.

Residents can also use mosquito dunk kits to reduce mosquito populations in certain situations. Kits contain a larvicide that must be used according to the directions provided. People can buy one for $5 at the Oswego County Soil and Water Conservation District, 3105 NYS Rte. 3, Fulton. Call 315-592-9663 for details.

Homeowners are also advised to repair or replace any broken screens to keep mosquitoes outdoors; and to cover rain barrels with a screen to keep mosquitoes out.

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 https://www.health.ny.gov/publications/2731/.

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