What to do About West Nile Virus

It appears that we are once again facing a hot and humid summer season and because of this, we are already seeing fertile breeding grounds for the Culex pipien restuans mosquito. This mosquito has been known to carry the West Nile Virus, and on July 19, 2007, a sample was collected in Jericho which turned up positive for West Nile Virus. This particular type of mosquito tends to bite birds, and as of today, there have been no positive West Nile Virus events affecting humans, horses, or birds.

To help keep West Nile Virus away, here are some easy and inexpensive techniques which I would like to suggest we all do to help prevent unnecessary mosquito breeding and biting:

• Remove or empty standing water fro old tires, garbage cans, pails, or any objects that can hold water.
• Make sure roof gutters drain properly. Clean clogged gutters in the spring and fall.
• Keep swimming pools chlorinated and keep covers free of stagnant water.
• Change the water in bird baths every two or three days.
• Install window and door screens and keep them in good repair to keep mosquitoes out of the home.
• Try to wear long sleeves, pants, socks, and repellent when outdoors where mosquitoes are active, especially in late afternoon and dusk.

Additional information regarding West Nile Virus may be obtained by calling the Nassau  County Department of Health at 571-2500 or going to the Nassau County Web site at www.nassaucountyny.gov and selecting Agencies/Health.

Please feel free to contact my office at 571-2618 with any questions.

Legislator Diane Yatauro