Norwalk Health Department Launches Mosquito Management Program

From the Norwalk Health Department: The Health Department launched its annual larvicide application program this week to reduce the mosquito population and prevent mosquito-borne diseases. Workers from All Habitat Inc. are applying larvicide to various standing water locations around the city, which prevents mosquito eggs from hatching.

West Nile activity has increased across the state recently. Earlier this week, state officials notified the Health Department of Norwalk’s first West Nile-infected mosquitoes of the season.

Several other municipalities, including Greenwich, Stamford, Darien, New Canaan, and Weston, have also reported positive mosquitoes this season.

No human cases of West Nile Virus infection have been reported yet this year. Last year, a total of three human cases were reported in the state, none of which were in Norwalk.

“With the warm weather and recent rain, we are concerned about the likelihood of more mosquitoes and the risk of human infection with West Nile,” Deanna D’Amore, MPH, Norwalk Director of Health said in a release. “This risk is likely to continue through the end of September.”

The larvicide application is just one part of the Health Department’s mosquito management program. In addition to working with state officials to monitor the mosquito population, the Health Department also works to help residents understand how to protect themselves from mosquito bites.

To avoid getting bitten:

• Apply mosquito repellent before going outdoors.
• Drain stagnant water in old tires, birdbaths, wading pools, garbage can lids and cans in recycle bins.
• Keep gutters and leaders free of debris.
• Install or repair window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out of your home.
• Do not leave swimming pools uncovered without chlorinating and filtering.

For more information about the Health Department’s mosquito management program, visit www.norwalkhealth.com.

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