The Nassau County Departments of Health and Public Works will continue their Mosquito Control Program as part of their on-going West Nile virus prevention efforts.

The 2002 Mosquito Control Program builds on information and experience gained from the past three years. If spraying for adult mosquitoes becomes necessary, it will be done only as a last resort. The County will continue its policy of 24-hour public notification of any proposed spraying. Last year, the County did not spray in any residential area. This year, fewer birds will be collected. Instead, the Departments will rely on its extensive system of mosquito surveillance to indicate West Nile virus activity.

Only infected mosquitoes can transmit the virus to humans, not birds. Therefore, it is safe for residents to dispose of any dead bird by double bagging and placing it in the trash. We do ask that residents continue to report any findings of dead birds by calling 571-8707 weekdays between 7:45 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Residents are urged to continue to take precautions against mosquitoes since 90% of all mosquito breeding grounds are on private property. Precautions include:

• Remove or empty standing water in any containers, including flower pots, old tires, garbage cans, tarps for grills or swimming pool covers, etc.
• Empty and change the water in bird baths at least once a week
• Clean and unclog rain gutters and leaders
• Insure windows and door screens are in good repair
• Replace outdoor lights with yellow "bug lights."

In 2001, there were four confirmed cases of West Nile virus and two deaths in Nassau County; in 2000, there were no cases; and in the first year of the disease, 1999, there were six cases and one death.

Additional mosquito control information may be found on the Nassau County web site and link to the Health Department. The Nassau County web site is www.NassauCountyNY.gov/health.