West Nile Virus detected in Oswego County

SYRACUSE, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) — According to the Oswego County Health Department a mosquito pool recently tested in the Toad Harbor Swamp in the town of West Monroe, was positive for West Nile Virus.

“We have been working closely with the state Department of Health to monitor mosquito activity around the county for several weeks,” said Oswego County Public Health Director, Vera Dunsmoor. “This finding, though early in the season, serves as a reminder for people everywhere that they need to be vigilant in their efforts to avoid mosquito bites.”

Here are some tips the Oswego County Health Department by to reduce mosquito habitat around the home:

• Repair or replace window and door screens to keep mosquitoes outside and reduce or eliminate all standing water.
• Dispose of old tires. Used tires are a significant mosquito breeding site and are accepted at some county transfer stations for a small charge. Call the Oswego County Solid Waste Department at 315-591-9200 for locations and fees.
• Empty or dispose of pails, cans, flower pots, and similar water-holding containers.
• Drill holes in the bottoms of recycling containers that are kept outdoors.
• Clear roof gutters and be sure they drain properly.
• Turn over wheelbarrows and wading pools when not in use.
• Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas, and hot tubs. Drain pool covers.
• Change the water in birdbaths and horse troughs twice a week.
• Remove leaf debris from yards and gardens and clean vegetation and debris from the edge of ponds.

They also suggest Using landscaping to eliminate standing water that collects on your property.

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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