Baldwin To Receive Spraying To Thwart West Nile Virus Threat

BALDWIN, PA — Baldwin is one of several Pittsburgh communities that will be treated Wednesday for mosquitos. The Allegheny County Health Department said the treatments are necessary because it continues to collect mosquito samples that have tested positive for West Nile Virus.

The Beltzhoover-Knoxville and Sheraden-Corliss neighborhoods in Pittsburgh also will be treated. The pesticide used will be Zenivex E20, which the Environmental Protection Agency classifies as a low-risk insecticide not harmful to humans or pets.

The country's leading mosquito-borne disease, West Nile Virus is spread to people by bites from infected mosquitos. West Nile Virus occur during mosquito season beginning in the spring and continuing through the fall.

One in five people infected with the virus develop a fever and other symptoms such as a headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Less than one percent of infected people develop a serious illness.

People can report mosquito breeding sites on both private properties and public areas to the health department's Housing and Community Environment Program by completing an online form or calling 412-350-4046.