Montco Issues West Nile Virus Warning

Spring, thankfully, is upon us. And so is West Nile Virus season.

In light of the second, Montgomery County Commissioners and the county health department are recommending that residents begin taking precautions to discourage mosquito breeding around their homes.

“West Nile virus remains an unpredictable disease, and we won't be able to tell how severe a problem it will be this year,” said Josh Shapiro, chair of the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners.

“By taking steps now, residents can help to reduce mosquito populations,” Shapiro said.

The health department has begun accepting complaint calls from residents, and routine larviciding of public properties has begun and will continue throughout the summer months. If virus activity poses a risk to human health, adulticiding may be necessary in targeted areas.

County residents who would like to be notified when spraying will occur should sign up for the ReadyNotify service here.

The health department is also recommending residents take the following steps to discourage the spread of West Nile Virus.

• Reduce Exposure to Mosquitoes.
• Check and repair windows and screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.
• Eliminate any standing water that collects on your property.
• Survey your property and dispose of containers that can collect standing water such as: old tires, cans, bottles, buckets, toys.
• After it rains empty any plant containers, bird baths, flowerpots, kiddie pools and pool covers to keep water from collecting in these items.
• Make sure roof gutters drain properly and rooftops are free of standing water.
• Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs. Keep them empty and covered if not in use; drain water that collects in pool covers.
• Drill several holes in the bottom of recycling buckets so water can drain from them. Trash containers should be covered so no rain can accumulate in them.
• Use an approved mosquito repellant when outdoors in areas where mosquitoes are active.
• Apply insect repellent sparingly to exposed skin. FOLLOW THE LABEL DIRECTIONS CAREFULLY. Do NOT apply to face. NEVER ALLOW CHILDREN TO APPLY REPELLENTS. Parents should avoid applying repellents to the hands of children. Check with a physician before applying repellents to very young children (less than 3 years old).
• Avoid mosquito-breeding areas during peak periods of mosquito activity.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, making sure to cover feet and ankles.
• Discuss any concerns with your private physician.