South Meadows mosquito test finds West Nile Virus

First positive report in 2015.

The Washoe County Health District confirms that a mosquito sample from the South Meadows area has tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV), the first positive test in 2015. When WNV identification is confirmed, the Health District increases mosquito surveillance and conducts controlled early-morning fogging in the area. On Tuesday, August 4, the Health District will begin fogging the vicinity to provide relief for South Meadows neighborhoods from increased mosquito activity.

“This is typically the time we begin seeing West Nile Virus in the area,” said Washoe County Health District Communications Manager Phil Ulibarri. "The weather has been particularly hot and humid offering prime breeding factors for mosquitos, “ he added. Ulibarri said the first positive test for WNV in 2014 was in early August as well and that everyone should review the ways to keep mosquitos at bay and bites to a minimum.

How to avoid mosquito bites:

• Wear proper clothing and repellent if going outdoors when mosquitos are most active in the early morning and evening.
• Use a repellant containing DEET, picaradin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535 according to label instructions. Repellents keep the mosquitos from biting you. DEET can be used safely on infants and children 2 months of age and older.
• Make sure that your doors and windows have tight-fitting screens to keep mosquitos out. Repair or replace screens with tears or holes.
• Clear standing water and any items from around homes that can be potential mosquito breeding-grounds, including small puddles, pools, planters, children’s sandboxes, wagons or toys, underneath and around faucets, as well as plant saucers and pet bowls.
• Vaccinate your horses for WNV.

Residents may report night-time mosquito activity to the Health District at 785-4599 or 328-2434. More information on WNV and the Washoe County Health District’s Vector-Borne Disease Prevention Program can be found at http://bit.ly/1SCOM2g.