Mosquito in Bensalem Tests Positive for West Nile

A mosquito in Bensalem has tested positive for West Nile virus, state health officials said Monday.

The mosquito was one of 28 infected insects announced in the state’s most recent sampling.

DEP and West Nile virus staff are responding with additional surveillance and control as needed, according to information from officials.

The first human case of West Nile in Pennsylvania was confirmed Friday, state officials said. A Philadelphia man was hospitalized due to the infection and has since recovered.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, West Nile is transmitted via mosquitos and there are currently no medications to treat or vaccines to prevent WNV infection.

The best thing residents can do is get rid of standing water where mosquitoes can breed on their property, according to experts.

Here are more tips to reduce exposure to West Nile:

• 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 as 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 a resident has 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.

• 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.

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