Rock Hill Resident Diagnosed with West Nile Virus; Crews to Spray for Mosquitoes

MosquitoPhoto byPhoto by Pixabay:

August 24, 2024 | York County, SC — A resident of Rock Hill has been diagnosed with West Nile virus, prompting the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) to initiate mosquito control measures in the area. The diagnosis was confirmed on August 23, 2024, and marks the first case of West Nile virus in Rock Hill since September 2020.

In response to the confirmed case, DPH has recommended increased education and control efforts to reduce the risk of further mosquito exposure. Residents are advised to eliminate standing water around their properties, use insect repellent, cover exposed skin, and keep windows and doors closed.

To control the current mosquito population, spraying will occur within a one-mile radius of Constitution Blvd, Westerwood Drive, and Fargo Street. The spraying is scheduled for Monday evening, August 26th, starting at 9 PM. Crews will use a truck-mounted sprayer to distribute Envion 4-4, a product that is not harmful to people, pets, other insects, or gardens. However, residents are advised to avoid direct exposure to the spray. Beekeepers within the affected area are advised to cover their hives during the spraying.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most individuals infected with West Nile virus do not develop symptoms, and the risk of severe illness remains low. Additional information about the virus, including symptoms, treatment, and prevention, is available on the CDC's website.

For questions or concerns regarding the mosquito control efforts, residents can contact the York County Office of Emergency Management at 803-326-2300.

For further inquiries, please reach out to Greg Suskin, Public Information Officer for York County Government, at Greg.Suskin@yorkcountygov.com or (803) 517-5477.

Press Release available here.