City Of Ames: Mosquito Trapping Reveals Continued West Nile Virus Risk

Press release from the City of Ames:

08/25/2021 3:30 PM

Recent testing from Iowa State University and the University Hygienic Lab indicate that mosquitoes from traps at area parks have tested positive for the West Nile Virus (WNV). While there is a lag time between collecting the samples and the testing, the results suggest mosquitoes with the potential to carry WNV are likely still present in the community.

“Historically, we are moving into the peak season of WNV transmission, so preventative measures such as spraying, larvicide, and removal of standing water in the area can reduce mosquito populations. Indications of these mosquitoes are not anything new, but these test results provide an opportunity to remind people to take precaution when they are outdoors,” said Dr. Ryan C. Smith, ISU Department of Entomology.

Avoiding mosquito bites is the best way of limiting the risk of mosquito-transmitted illness. Mosquitoes thrive in the warm, wet weather of summer in Iowa and can carry several diseases. Even without significant rainfall, mosquitoes can still become a concern. There are several ways to avoid and get rid of mosquitoes.

“The most effective way to eliminate mosquitoes is to remove standing water in residential areas where even a small amount of standing water from flower pots, buckets, or barrels can be enough for a mosquito to lay eggs,” Smith said. “When spending time outdoors or enjoying a summer evening on the patio, it’s important to take precautions to prevent bites. Wearing mosquito repellent or long-sleeved shirts and long pants can be used as preventive measures, especially at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes that transmit WNV are most active.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control, eight of 10 people infected with the WNV will have no symptoms. Approximately one in five people infected will develop flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, and rash. Most people will recover completely from WNV but may experience several weeks of fatigue. About one in 150 people infected will develop a severe illness.

The City of Ames Parks and Recreation Department typically uses a multi-step program for mosquito control, including surveillance through trapping at multiple park locations and testing completed by the Iowa State University Department of Entomology.  Based on surveillance and results from testing, staff completes larviciding to kill mosquito larvae and fogging to control adult mosquitoes.

This press release was produced by the City of Ames. The views expressed here are the author’s own.