A mosquito sample collected in Tredyffrin Township on July 7 has tested positive for West Nile virus, the first mosquito sample that has tested positive in 2016, according to the Chester County Health Department.
The Chester County Health Department sets mosquito traps to collect and test adult mosquitoes for West Nile as part of routine surveillance. Traps are placed in highly populated areas, known mosquito-breeding areas, areas where a resident has previously been identified as having a confirmed case of West Nile, and locations identified by residents as having high levels of mosquito activity, a Health Department press release said.
The Chester County Health Department will continue to monitor these areas as well as surrounding areas and will consider mosquito control activities when appropriate, the release said.
The chances of contracting West Nile from an infected mosquito are small and chances of becoming seriously ill are even smaller. However, the Chester County Health Department encourages county residents to “make you and your home a bite-free zone,” thus reducing the risk of West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne diseases.
The Chester County Health Department was notified last month of the county’s first confirmed case of Zika virus by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That case involved a Chester County woman who had traveled to an area affected by mosquitos carrying the Zika virus and has since recovered, the Health Department said.
To reduce the risk of being bitten, the Health Department advises people to limit outdoor activities at dawn and dusk during warmer months since most, but not all, types of mosquitoes bite most frequently during these times. Run electric fans nearby when spending time outdoors; mosquitoes have trouble flying in strong winds.
In addition, wear light-colored, tightly woven, long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and socks. If you choose to use insect repellents, use Environmental Protection Agency-registered repellents with one of the following active ingredients: DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or para-menthane-diol.
Other precautions recommended by the Health Department include getting rid of any standing water. Cover or empty containers such as trashcans, wading pools, wheelbarrows, and pots. Turn containers upside down when not in use so they don’t collect water, and drill holes in the bottom of recycling containers. Change the water in birdbaths every three to five days, and check storm drains, window wells, and underneath leaky faucets for standing water.
For more information on preventing mosquito-borne diseases, visit www.chesco.org/mosquitoes or call 610-344-6490.
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