First Mosquitoes Testing Positive for West Nile Virus -- 8.4.2010
COLUMBUS PUBLIC HEALTH – Press Release
FOR WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 4
Columbus Public Health Confirms First Mosquitoes Testing Positive for West Nile Virus
Commissioner Urges Residents to Practice Prevention
Columbus Health Medical Director and Assistant Health Commissioner Dr. Mysheika Le-Maile-Williams, today confirmed that a pool of mosquitoes collected by Columbus Public Health, has tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). This is the first reported WNV found in the city of Columbus limits this season.
The positive test was collected from just north of downtown Columbus, which was recently sprayed, and will be sprayed again this coming Monday.
"These positive results are a reminder of the importance of taking precautions to protect ourselves from mosquito exposure," Dr. LeMaile-Williams said.
"Residents can protect themselves by using insect repellant, wearing protective clothing at dawn or dusk, repairing window screens, and eliminating standing water where mosquitoes lay eggs such as bird baths and baby pools.”
To avoid possible infection from mosquito bites: Avoid outdoor activities between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active; if you must be outdoors, be sure to wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, shoes and socks. Light colors are least attractive to mosquitoes. Use insect repellent and follow the label directions.
To eliminate mosquito breeding sites near your home: Remove all discarded tires and other water-holding containers, such as tin cans and unused flower pots, from your property. Eliminate standing water from your property. Make sure all roof gutters are clean and properly draining. Clean and chlorinate pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs. Keep them empty when not in use and drain water from pool covers. Change water in bird baths weekly.
For more information on the West Nile Virus, as well as weekly fogging schedules, visit the Columbus Public Health Web site at www.publichealth.columbus.gov. Additional information on West Nile is also available at www.cdc.gov and www.epa.gov