'Tis The Season For West Nile Virus

The West Nile Virus (WNV) season has begun and the Montgomery County Health Department (MCHD) is recommending that residents take precautions to clear away mosquito breeding areas around their homes. WNV, which surfaced in the U.S. more than ten years ago, is commonly transmitted back and forth between infected birds and mosquitoes. However, humans can become the unintended hosts of the disease when they are bitten by an infected mosquito.

With the onset of warmer weather and peak WNV season approaching, MCHD is reminding residents that they can help prevent the spread of WNV by eliminating standing water from their property.

“West Nile Virus was particularly prevalent last year, and in preparation for this upcoming season, we urge residents to take the necessary precautions,” said Josh Shapiro, chairman of the Montgomery County Commissioners. 

West Nile Virus remains an unpredictable disease, and there is no indication of how severe a problem it will be this year. By taking steps now, residents can help to reduce mosquito populations.

MCHD also encourages residents to mosquito-proof their homes by replacing torn screens in doors and windows; cleaning out gutters; and by emptying and turning over containers that could collect water, allowing mosquitoes to breed. Standing water is a potential breeding ground for mosquitoes. Anything that can hold water for four days can breed thousands of mosquitoes. Eliminating standing water has proven effective in controlling WNV.

MCHD will soon begin routine larviciding of public properties throughout the summer months. If the WNV activity poses a risk to human health, adulticiding, or spraying, may be necessary in targeted areas.

Residents who would like to be notified of when spraying will occur should sign up for the ReadyNotify service here. Residents must register for “Health Alerts” to get notifications from the Health Department about WNV sprays and other issues. Other information about WNV, including products used, can be found at the Health Department website here.

Reduce Exposure to Mosquitoes

•           Check and repair windows and screens 

•           Eliminate any standing water that collects on your property.

•           Dispose of containers that can collect standing water

•           After it rains empty any containers to keep water from collecting

•           Make sure roof gutters drain and rooftops are free of standing water.

•           Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas, and hot tubs.

•          Drill several holes in the bottom of recycling buckets so water can drain

•     Trash containers should be covered so no rain can accumulate in them.

•           Use an approved mosquito repellant when outdoors 

•           Never allow children to apply repellent. Avoid hands and face.

•           Check with a physician before applying to very young children 

•           Avoid mosquito-breeding areas during peak periods ofactivity.

•           Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, cover feet and ankles.

•           Discuss any concerns with your private physician.

Information courtesy of the Montgomery County Commissioners' office of communications; Jessica Willingham