West Nile Virus Found in Mosquitoes in Woodbridge

Mosquitoes have tested positive for the West Nile Virus in the Woodbridge area, according to the Prince William Health District. The mosquitoes collected earlier this month are the first reported in the county in 2014. 

The positive mosquitoes tested indicate there is an increased risk of contracting the virus across Prince William County, according to a health district release. The county’s Mosquito Control Program has performed intensive treatment in the vicinity of the positive mosquito pools to kill adult and larval mosquitoes. 

If bitten by an infected mosquito, most people only suffer a mild, flu-like illness, if they get sick at all. But seniors can be at risk of serious illness, including meningitis. There was one confirmed human case of West Nile Virus disease reported in Prince William County in 2013, according to the health district.

The Prince William Health District recommends the following to reduce exposure to mosquitoes:

• Wear long, loose and light-colored clothing.
• Follow label instructions when using insect repellents.
• Turn over or remove containers in your yard where any water may collect, such as old tires, potted plant trays, buckets and toys. 
• Eliminate any standing water in yards or on tarps or flat roofs.
• Chlorinate or clean out birdbaths and wading pools every three to five days. 
• Clean roof gutters and downspout screens regularly. Mosquitoes breed and feed in standing water in roof gutters.

For questions about mosquito control spraying or to opt out of spraying, contact Prince William Gypsy Moth & Mosquito Control at 703-792-6279. You may also follow the Prince William Health District on Twitter @PrinceWilliamHD or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/PrinceWilliamHealthDistrict for more health information.