COLUMBUS PUBLIC HEALTH – Press Release
FOR THURSDAY, JULY 5
Columbus Public Health Confirms First Mosquitoes Positive for West Nile Virus
Commissioner Urges Residents to Practice Prevention
Columbus Public Health (CPH) Commissioner Dr. Teresa C. Long, today confirmed that two pools (groups) of mosquitoes collected by CPH, has tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). This is the first reported WNV found in the city of Columbus limits this season.
The positive tests were collected in South Columbus between High Street and Parsons Avenue, south of Route 104 and north of Williams Rd. A second group was collected in North Columbus between I-71 and Indianola Avenue, south of E. North Broadway and north of E. Weber. Both areas will be scheduled for spraying.
"These positive results are a reminder of the importance of taking precautions to protect ourselves from mosquito exposure," Dr. Long said.
"Residents can protect themselves by using insect repellant, wearing protective clothing at dawn or dusk, repairing window screens, and eliminating standing water where mosquitoes lay eggs such as bird baths and baby pools.”
To avoid possible infection from mosquito bites: Avoid outdoor activities between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active; if you must be outdoors, be sure to wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, shoes and socks. Light colors are least attractive to mosquitoes. Use insect repellent and follow the label directions.
To eliminate mosquito breeding sites near your home: Remove all discarded tires and other water-holding containers, such as tin cans and unused flower pots, from your property. Eliminate standing water from your property. Make sure all roof gutters are clean and properly draining. Clean and chlorinate pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs. Keep them empty when not in use and drain water from pool covers. Change water in bird baths weekly.
For more information on WNV, as well as weekly fogging schedules, visit our Web site at www.publichealth.columbus.gov or visit us on Facebook / Twitter / YouTube.
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