New Haven (WSYR-TV) – The State Health Department has confirmed that evidence of West Nile virus has been found in mosquitoes in the Oswego County town of New Haven.
The mosquitoes were collected on July 17 and submitted to the state for testing. The state confirmed the virus’s discovery on Tuesday.
No evidence of EEE has been discovered this summer in Oswego County. Last year, EEE took the life of a New Haven child,
5-year-old Maggie Wilcox.
The West Nile virus has been found on three occasions this year in Oswego County. Previous samples were
discovered in the village of Central Square.
The Oswego County Health Department advises residents to take the following precautions:
- Use insect repellent properly. Repellents containing DEET or picaridin are the most effective and should be used according to package instructions.
- Whenever possible, limit outdoor activities in areas where mosquitoes are most active and between dusk and dawn which is the peak mosquito-biting time.
- As weather permits, wear protective clothing such as long-sleeved shirts, long pants, shoes and socks.
In addition, people should follow these protection measures to minimize mosquito populations in and around their homes and properties:
- Install or repair all door and window screens.
- Reduce or eliminate all standing water from old tires, pails, recycling containers, flower pots, wheelbarrows, wading pools and pool covers.
- Change the water in birdbaths and horse troughs twice a week.
For more information about West Nile or other mosquito-borne viruses, call the Oswego County Health Department at (315) 349-3547 or 1-800-596-3200, ext. 3547, or visit the New York State Department of Health website at www.health.state.ny.us.
