Mosquito Season: Preventing West Nile Virus
About West Nile Virus
West Nile Virus is an illness caused by infected mosquitoes that carry the disease from infected birds to people. While not all mosquitoes carry it, an infected mosquito can cause illness. The greatest risk of getting West Nile is from July to mid-September, however a person’s risk of getting West Nile is very low. More about this...
Mosquito Spraying
Columbus Public Health practices disease control and prevention for the West Nile Virus by spraying in areas with high mosquito counts and disease presence in area parks, bike paths and neighborhoods. Columbus Public Health sprays between 4 a.m. and 6 a.m., using low toxicity chemicals.
Spraying areas are determined by mosquito trap results and reports from field staff, the number and type of mosquitoes trapped, the number of infected mosquitoes and evidence of human disease. View updated maps at CPH Spray Maps.
Mosquito Trapping & Testing
Columbus Public Health begins trapping mosquitoes in June each year to test them for West Nile virus. Trapping is typically conducted Monday through Thursday of each week.
See trapping results.
Reduce Mosquitoes
You can also reduce the number of mosquitoes in areas where you live, work and play.
- Drain or remove standing water containers, like tin cans, old tires and unused flower pots.
- Clean pools and outdoor hot tubs, keep them empty or covered when not in use, and drain water from pool covers at least weekly.
- Check for clogged rain gutters and for standing water in places that may be hard to see.
- Change water in bird baths weekly.
- Repair window and door screens.
Prevent Mosquito Bites
- Use insect repellent containing an EPA-registered active ingredient and follow the directions on the package.
- Stay indoors when possible, especially during dawn and dusk.
- Wear lightweight long sleeves and pants when outside.
- Other tips
Complaints about Mosquitos
If you have a complaint about mosquitos within the City of Columbus, please call the City of Columbus Service Center at 645-3111.
For More Information