Lawrence County Receives West Nile Virus Grant

$59,280 for spraying, education programs

Lawrence County will receive a $59,280 state grant to continue the on-going efforts to combat the potentially fatal West Nile Virus, according to Senator Bob Robbins.

The West Nile Virus, which is transmitted by mosquitoes, was detected for the first time in Pennsylvania in 2000. Overall, there were 304 positive cases statewide in 2006, including nine reported cases of human infection. Last year, Lawrence County discovered four positive cases, including one in September involving a 62 year-old man. The other three cases involved either birds or insects.

"Lawrence County will use the money to implement a mosquito monitoring and virus surveillance program and to educate residents about the potential threat posed by the virus," Senator Robbins said. "This surveillance and testing includes trapping mosquitoes, collecting dead birds and monitoring other animals as well as people who may be infected."

Here are some ways to eliminate mosquito breeding areas:

Stagnant water in a wading pool, birdbath, wheelbarrow, discarded tire, trashcan, or recycling container can become a place for mosquitoes to breed. Use landscaping to eliminate standing water that collects on your property. Mosquitoes may breed in any puddle that lasts for more than four days.
Clean roof gutters every year, particularly if the leaves from surrounding trees have a tendency to plug up the drains. Clogged roof gutters can produce millions of mosquitoes each season.
Aerate ornamental pools or stock them with fish. Water gardens can become major mosquito producers if they are allowed to stagnate. Clean and chlorinate swimming pools not in use. A swimming pool left untended by a family on vacation for a month can produce enough mosquitoes to result in neighborhood-wide complaints. Mosquitoes may even breed in the water that collects on pool covers.

Contact:

Mike Hengst
(717) 787-1322