West Nile Virus Hits Northampton County with 26 Positive Mosquitoes

Despite warnings and sprayings throughout the Lehigh Valley and the country, the number of West Nile Virus cases so far this year is the highest recorded since the disease was first detected in the United States in 1999, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

As of Aug. 21, the CDC reports, 38 states reported human infections, totaling 1,118 cases. There have been 41 deaths.

In Northampton County, 29 West Nile Virus positives have been reported:

• Human Cases: 0
• Mosquito Positives: 26
• Avian (bird) Cases: 2
• Veterinary Positives: 1

While the bulk of mosquito positives were reported in Easton, Bethlehem, Bethlehem Township and Hanover Township (Northampton County), two mosquitoes in Wind Gap tested positive on July 17 and Aug. 15.

Another local positive was a bird -- an American Crow -- from . This result was reported on July 23.

Certain mosquito species carry the West Nile Virus, which can cause humans to contract encephalitis, an infection that can result in an inflammation of the brain.

Most people bitten by an infected mosquito show no symptoms of illness. However, some become sick three to 15 days after exposure. People 50 and older are more susceptible to severe disease symptoms.

According to the CDC, all residents in areas where virus activity has been identified are at risk.

Individuals can take a number of precautionary measures around their homes to help eliminate mosquito-breeding areas, including:

• Dispose of cans, buckets, plastic containers, ceramic pots or similar containers that hold water.

• Properly dispose of discarded tires that can collect water. Stagnant water is where most mosquitoes breed.

• Drill holes in the bottom of outdoor recycling containers.

• Have clogged roof gutters cleaned every year, particularly if the leaves from surrounding trees have a tendency to plug drains.

• Turn over plastic wading pools when not in use.

• Turn over wheelbarrows and don’t let water stagnate in birdbaths.

• Aerate ornamental pools or stock them with fish.

• Clean and chlorinate swimming pools not in use and remove any water that may collect on pool covers.

• If residents have stagnant pools of water on their property, they can buy BTI products at lawn and garden, outdoor supply, home improvement and other stores.
  
  This naturally occurring bacterium kills mosquito larvae but is safe for people, pets, aquatic life and plants.

Additionally, these simple precautions can prevent mosquito bites, particularly for people who are most at risk:

• Make sure screens fit tightly over doors and windows to keep mosquitoes out of homes.

• Consider wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants and socks when outdoors, particularly when mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk, or in areas known for having large numbers of mosquitoes.

• When possible, reduce outdoor exposure at dawn and dusk during peak mosquito periods, usually April through October.

• Use insect repellents according to the manufacturer’s instructions. An effective repellent will contain DEET, picaridin or lemon eucalyptus oil. Consult with a pediatrician or family physician for questions about the use of repellent on children, as repellent is not recommended for children under the age of 2 months.

For more information about West Nile Virus and the state’s surveillance and control program, visit www.westnile.state.pa.us.