Immediate Release

Tuesday, April 30, 2002

"Fight the Bite"


     West Nile virus, a mosquito-borne infection that can cause serious illness, was first found in New York State in 1999. While the chances of a person becoming ill are small, the Oneida County Health Department wants local residents to "Fight the Bite" by reducing the number of mosquitoes in their yards and homes.

     Mosquitoes are small flying insects that feed on human and animal blood or plant juices. Only female mosquitoes bite to get a blood meal for their growing eggs. "Mosquitoes are generally considered a nuisance pest, but occasionally can transmit disease," said JoAnn Nora, Public Health Educator. "While there are about 70 different species of mosquitoes in New York State, only certain species have been associated with West Nile virus," added JoAnn Nora.

     Mosquitoes can develop in any standing water that lasts more than four days. Weed, tall grass and shrubbery provide outdoor homes for adult mosquitoes, which may also enter houses through unscreened windows or doors, or broken screens. To reduce the mosquito population around the home and property, JoAnn Nora advises residents to reduce or eliminate all standing water:

  • Dispose of tin cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots or similar water-holding containers.
  • Remove all discarded tires. Used tires are significant mosquito breeding sites.
  • Drill holes in the bottoms of recycling containers that are kept outdoors.
  • Make sure roof gutters drain properly, and clean clogged gutters in the spring and fall.
  • Remove leaf debris.
  • Turn over plastic wading pools and wheelbarrows when not in use.
  • Change the water in birdbaths.
  • Clean vegetation and debris from the edges of ponds.
  • Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs.
  • Drain water from pool covers.
  • Use landscaping to eliminate any pools of stand water.

     The people who are most susceptible to West Nile infection are persons over age 50, and those with damaged immune systems. Healthy children and adults are at very low risk for infection.

     "It is not necessary to limit any outdoor activities, unless there is evidence of mosquito-borne disease," stated JoAnn Nora. If West Nile virus is found in your area:

  • Wear shoes and socks, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt when outdoors for long periods of time, or when mosquitoes are more active.
  • Consider the use of mosquito repellent, according to directions, when it is necessary to be outdoors.

The New York State Health Department is using dead crow sightings and laboratory testing of dead birds to help track West Nile virus. If you see a dead crow, report it to your local health department. However, not all dead crows will be collected or tested.

For more information about mosquitoes, West Nile virus and insect repellents, contact JoAnn Nora at the Oneida County Health Department at (315) 798-5248.