It’s been a long cold winter. Now, along with the warmer weather comes an unwelcome — and potentially dangerous pest — mosquitoes infected with the West Nile Virus.
The virus causes severe neurological symptoms in about one percent of people who become infected.
The Centre County West Nile Virus Surveillance and Control program goes back in operation on April 15. Workers will be trapping and testing mosquitoes — looking for signs of WNV. Workers will also collect dead birds for testing.
You might be surprised to learn there are about 50 different species of mosquitoes in Pennsylvania but only 12 of those species actually carry WNV.
Last year there were 84 positive tests for WNV in Centre County. Fortunately, only one person tested positive. West Nile Virus was also found in three horses, 28 birds and 52 mosquitoes in the county.
Statewide, there were 60 human cases, with four deaths. All of those numbers are increases over the previous year, so it’s wise to take precautions.
To reduce the threat of WNV around your home, you should eliminate sources of standing water. That includes unused swimming pools, stagnant ornamental ponds, poorly functioning roof gutters, and especially used tires. Those spots are literally breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
The Surveillance and Control Program is funded by a grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.
If you have questions or concerns, contact the County Planning & Community Development Office at 814-355-6971 or by email at amlavan@centrecountypa.gov
