Warning: West Nile Virus Season is Here

It's time to take precautions to clear away mosquito breeding areas around your home.

Pennsylvania had 28 human cases of West Nile Virus (WNV) last year (ranking 28th in the nation).

WNV, which surfaced in the U.S. more than ten years ago, is commonly transmitted back and forth between infected birds and mosquitoes. However, humans can become the unintended hosts of the disease when they are bitten by an infected mosquito.

With the onset of warmer weather and peak WNV season approaching, you can help prevent the spread of WNV by eliminating standing water from their property.

Mosquito Complaints

• In Lehigh County, contact Louise M. Bugbee at email lmb19@psu.edu or (610) 366-8345 or (610) 391-0683
• In Northampton County, contact Leonard Forte at email lforte@pa.gov or (610) 861-2134 or (610) 861-2072

To Report a Dead Bird: The Pa. West Nile Control Program is testing ravens, crows, blue jays, hawks, buzzards, owls and eagles. Click on this link to report a dead bird.

Reduce Exposure to Mosquitoes

• Check and repair windows and screens 
• Eliminate any standing water that collects on your property.
• Dispose of containers that can collect standing water
• After it rains empty any containers to keep water from collecting
• Make sure roof gutters drain and rooftops are free of standing water.
• Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas, and hot tubs.
• Drill several holes in the bottom of recycling buckets so water can drain
• Trash containers should be covered so no rain can accumulate in them.
• Use an approved mosquito repellant when outdoors 
• Never allow children to apply repellent. Avoid hands and face.
• Check with a physician before applying to very young children 
• Avoid mosquito-breeding areas during peak periods ofactivity.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, cover feet and ankles.