More West Nile-Positive Mosquitos Found In Tredyffrin, Easttown

More mosquito samples collected in Tredyffrin and Easttown townships tested positive for West Nile virus ahead of anti-mosquito spraying treatment being applied in both municipalities.

State data shows each township had positive mosquito samples collected on July 23.

This marks the fifth positive sample in Tredyffrin and the second in Easttown.

Chester County at this point has had 49 positive hits this season.

The Chester County Health Department will conduct a mosquito control treatment spray in portions of Tredyffrin and Easttown townships on Tuesday, July 24.

Spraying will be applied between 8 p.m. and 11:30 p.m. In the event of inclement weather, the spraying will be done on Wednesday, July 25 during the same time.

Map of the areas that will be treated are below:

The testing is done by the Pennsylvania West Nile Virus Control Program as part of routine surveillance for the virus. Mosquitoes are trapped around the county in breeding areas and are tested daily.

You can see a full list of impacted counties and the number of positive samples by clicking here.

West Nile virus appeared for the first time in Pennsylvania in birds, mosquitoes and a horse in 2000.

It is most commonly spread to humans by infected mosquitoes. It can cause febrile illness, encephalitis, or meningitis, according to the CDC.

According to the CDC, about one in five people who are infected develop a fever and other symptoms. About one out of 150 infected people develop a serious, sometimes fatal, illness. You can reduce your risk of West Nile Virus by using insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants to prevent mosquito bites, the CDC said.

The best way to control mosquitoes is still to get rid of standing water on your property, according to information provided by the state's West Nile Virus Control Program.

The following guidelines have been offered to help residents minimize their risk:

• Limit outdoor activities at dawn and dusk during warmer months since most types of mosquitoes bite most frequently during these times. Be aware though that some types of mosquitoes bite most frequently during the daytime.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and socks. Choose clothing that is light colored and made of tightly woven material.
• Stay in places with air conditioning and window and door screens to keep mosquitoes outside.
• Sleep under a mosquito bed net if you are outside.
• Cover or empty containers such as trash cans, wading pools, wheelbarrows, and pots.
• Turn containers upside down when not in use so they don't collect water.
• Drill holes in the bottom of recycling containers.
• Get rid of old tires.
• Change the water in bird baths every three to five days.
• Check storm drains, window wells, and underneath leaky faucets for standing water.

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