West Nile Virus Found In 'Pool' Of Mosquitoes In Delaware County

DELAWARE COUNTY, PA — West Nile Virus has been detected in mosquitos in Delaware County, officials said.

The Delaware County Health Department Thursday announced it identified the first "pool" of mosquitoes that are positive for West Nile virus in 2023.

At this time, no human cases have been reported in Delaware County, officials said.

West Nile Virus activity typically occurs during the summer months and into the fall.

Because the County is experiencing more frequent mosquito activity than usual for this time of year, the health department is asking for residents' help.

"Preventing the spread of West Nile virus is up to everyone in Delaware County," Delaware County Health Department Director Melissa Lyon said. "West Nile is a disease that spreads from mosquitoes to people and can cause serious disease, and although rare, sometimes death. Using repellants and taking the proper precautions around your property is key to preventing mosquito bites, and potentially West Nile."

Eight out of 10 people infected with West Nile virus do not develop any symptoms, health officials said.

About one in five people who are infected develop a fever with other symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash,

Most people who develop symptoms of West Nile virus recover completely, but fatigue and weakness can last for weeks or months, according to officials.

About one in 150 people who are infected develop a severe illness affecting the central nervous system, such as encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord).

The most effective way to prevent the spread of West Nile virus is to keep mosquitoes from breeding.

To protect themselves and to help prevent the spread of West Nile virus, residents are encouraged to remember the "Three Ds:"

DRAIN
Anything that can hold water can breed mosquitoes, from soda bottle caps to discarded tires. Check your property for these sources of standing water and dump them out. At least once or twice a week, empty water from flowerpots, pet food and water dishes, birdbaths, swimming pool covers, buckets, barrels, cans, wheelbarrows, boats, cargo trailers, toys and any other items outside your home. Empty and store wading pools for kids on their side, and any other sources of standing water outside your home.

DRESS
Wear clothing like long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats to protect against bug bites. You can further protect yourself by tucking your pants into your boots. Wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants is a great way to prevent not only mosquito bites but tick bites as well.

DEFEND
Wear insect repellant with DEET, Picaridin, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus on exposed skin when outdoors. Another effective repellant is Permethrin. Be sure to carefully follow the instructions on the labels when using these repellants.

More information is available on the Delaware County Health Department West Nile Virus webpage here.