Mosquitoes Carrying West Nile Virus Found In Orange County

VILLAGE OF GOSHEN, NY — A mosquito pool carrying West Nile Virus has been found in the Village of Goshen, the first such finding identified through Orange County's ongoing mosquito monitoring this season, according to the Orange County Department of Health.

The discovery was announced as part of the county's continuing surveillance of the mosquito population. Orange County said the work is aimed at protecting public health as mosquito season continues.

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"This is an important reminder that mosquito-borne illnesses like West Nile Virus are present in our region," Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus said. "The Orange County Department of Health is here to keep you informed and safe. They provide the tools, resources, and guidance residents need to prevent mosquitoes from breeding and to reduce the risk of bites to themselves and their families."

The county also said Orange County Health Commissioner Jennifer Roman continues to recommend that residents protect themselves from mosquito bites and check their property for pooling or stagnant water. Guidance from the health department includes limiting outdoor activity between dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.

Residents are also advised to wear shoes and socks, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt when spending long periods outdoors. The county said people should consider using mosquito repellent when it is necessary to be outside, especially during evening activities, and should follow label directions.

County health officials said mosquitoes can breed in stagnant water that lasts more than four days. To help reduce mosquito activity around homes, the health department urged residents to throw away water-holding containers such as tin cans, plastic containers and ceramic pots, and to drill drainage holes in outdoor recycling containers.

Other recommendations include making sure roof gutters drain properly, turning over wading pools and wheelbarrows when not in use, and changing water in birdbaths twice a week. The health department also advised removing discarded tires, clearing vegetation and debris from pond edges, draining water from pool covers, and using landscaping to prevent standing water from collecting on properties.

For more information on mosquito prevention or protection, residents can call the Orange County Department of Health at 291-2332.