West Nile Virus Mosquitoes Found In Pittsburgh Neighborhoods

PITTSBURGH, PA - Mosquitoes recently collected from five Pittsburgh neighborhoods have tested positive for the West Nile Virus, prompting the Allegheny County Health Department to schedule mosquito treatment in those areas.

Select parts of the following communities will be treated via a truck-mounted sprayer on Aug. 8 from 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.: Mt. Washington, Beltzhoover, South Side Flats, South Side Slopes and Hazelwood. In the event of rain, the treatment will take place Aug. 13 during the same hours.

The treatment is intended to reduce the mosquito population and minimize the risk of transmission of West Nile Virus.. The first probable case of the ailment in Pennsylvania this year was reported in Allegheny County in late July.

The health department will use the pesticide called Zenivex E20, which kills adult mosquitoes but doesn’t harm people or pets.

Symptoms of the West Nile Virus can include a fever, headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Most people with these symptoms recover completely and do so on their own.

To protect yourself from the virus, the health department advises getting rid of standing water in yards, making sure that open window and doors have screens, using insect repellent on exposed skin and minimizing time spent outdoors - especially at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active. When used as directed, insect repellent is the best way to protect yourself from mosquito bites.

Complaints regarding properties with stagnant water in tires, unmaintained swimming pools or other water-holding containers can be reported to the health department by calling 412-350-4046.

Image via Shutterstock.

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