Press release from the Fort Wayne-Allen County Department of Health:
West Nile virus activity prompts first mosquito spraying of summer
(July 19, 2010) – The first signs of West Nile virus activity in Allen County in the 2010 mosquito season were confirmed today. A sample of mosquitoes collected at the 1800 block of Laverne Avenue has tested positive for the virus, health officials said.
Vector control crews will spray Tuesday, July 20 in a half-mile radius around where the positive mosquito sample was collected. Spraying will begin at approximately 8:30 p.m., weather permitting. Spraying will not occur when the temperature is below 55 °F, wind speeds exceed 10 mph or it is raining.
A map of the proposed spray area is included with this release and available on the department’s Web site at www.allencountyhealth.com.
Certain species of mosquitoes carry the West Nile virus which, when transmitted to humans, can cause symptoms such as fever, headaches, body aches, swollen lymph glands or a rash. A more severe form of the disease can lead to neurological disorders, coma and even death.
The health department’s mosquito control program focuses on eliminating potential breeding sites, larviciding to reduce the mosquito population, and placing traps to collect and test mosquitoes for disease. Spraying for adult mosquitoes, also known as adulticiding, is only performed when samples test positive for the West Nile virus.
While the pesticide used for mosquito control is an EPA-approved, low-volume concentration that is considered safe for humans and pets, it is suggested that residents remain indoors, bring pets inside, and close windows and doors while spraying is occurring.
Residents are also encouraged to prevent mosquito bites by wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants and by using an insect repellent.
For more information or to sign up to receive mosquito spraying notifications, visit www.allencountyhealth.com. Â Click here to download a map of the proposed spraying area.
West Nile Virus prevention measures:
- Check your property for breeding sites. Eliminate any sources of standing water.
- Limit time spent outdoors during peak mosquito biting times.
- Wear loose, light-colored, long sleeves and pants.
- Apply an insect repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535 to clothing and exposed skin.
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