News Releases > Health Department to spray for mosquitoes on Tuesday to reduce threat of West Nile virus

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (Aug. 24, 2009). – The Fort Wayne-Allen County Department of Health has detected West Nile virus in mosquitoes collected near the 2100 block of Wayne Trace and will be spraying in the area on Tuesday.

Spraying will begin at approximately 8:30 p.m., weather permitting. Spraying will not occur when the temperature is below 55°F, wind speeds exceed 10 mph or it is raining.  

The area to be sprayed is located in southeast Fort Wayne and is bordered on the north by Maumee Avenue, on the east by Edsall Avenue, on the west by McCulloch Street and Holton Avenue, and to the south by Pontiac Street. A map of the proposed spray area is included with this release and available on the department’s Web site at www.allencountyhealth.com.

Mosquitoes can 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. So far in 2009, there has been one fatal human case of West Nile virus in Indiana.

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. There have already been three targeted sprayings this summer.

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.