News Releases > West Nile virus activity prompts mosquito spraying on Tuesday

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (July 13, 2009). – The first signs of West Nile virus activity in Allen County in the 2009 mosquito season were confirmed today. A sample of mosquitoes collected at the 7700 block of Rothman Road has tested positive for the virus, health officials said.

To reduce mosquito activity and prevent the spread of the disease, the Fort Wayne-Allen County Department of Health will spray in a ½ mile radius around where the positive mosquito sample was collected.  Spraying will begin at approximately 9 p.m. and end before 11 p.m. on Tuesday, July 14, weather permitting.

The area to be sprayed includes Rothman Pointe and Valencia neighborhoods and portions of Cherry Hill. A map of the proposed spray area is included with this release and available on the department’s Web site at www.allencountyhealth.com

Certain species of mosquitoes carry the West Nile virus which, when transmitted to humans, can cause symptoms such as fever, headaches, body aches, swollen lymph glands or a rash. A more severe form of the disease can lead to neurological disorders, coma and even death.

The health department’s mosquito control program focuses on eliminating potential breeding sites, larviciding to reduce the mosquito population, and placing traps to collect and test mosquitoes for disease. Spraying for adult mosquitoes, also known as adulticiding, is only performed when samples test positive for the West Nile virus.

While the pesticide used for mosquito control is an EPA-approved, low-volume concentration that is considered safe for humans and pets, it is suggested that residents remain indoors, bring pets inside, and close windows and doors while spraying is occurring.

Residents are also encouraged to prevent mosquito bites by wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants and by using insect repellent.

 
For more information or to sign up to receive mosquito spraying notifications, visit www.allencountyhealth.com.