Community Corner
Woodbridge Mosquitoes Test Positive For West Nile Virus
The Prince William Health District reported that mosquitoes gathered in Woodbridge are the first to test positive in the county for West Nile Virus in 2013.
Mosquitoes in Woodbridge have tested positive for West Nile Virus, making them the first mosquitoes in the county to test positive for West Nile Virus in the 2013 season, according to a statement released by the Prince William Health District.
The positive mosquitoes were gathered at the Belmont Pump Station in Woodbridge. The Prince William Health District encourages residents to get rid of any standing water and to guard against mosquito bites.
"Since most of the mosquito species that residents need to control breed in standing water within a few hundred feet of their homes, control measures around the home are the most effective way to prevent mosquito breeding and to reduce the risk from bites," PWHD Director Dr. Alison Ansher said.
West Nile Virus is transmitted by mosquito bite. Most people bitten do fall ill, and the ones that do normally feel mild, flu-like symptoms. Those age 50 and older are at an increased risk of more serious illnesses, such as encephalitis or meningitis.
"The Prince William Mosquito Control Program performed an intensive treatment in the vicinity of the positive mosquito pools to kill adult mosquitoes and breeding larvae in residential areas," Northern Region Public Information Officer Lorrie Andrew-Spear said. "The Prince William Mosquito Control Program will continue to monitor the area and possibly conduct an adulticide spray based on future trap numbers."
The PWHD recommends cutting down exposure to mosquitoes with the following tips:
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Wear long, loose and light-colored clothing.
Use insect repellent products with no more than 50 percent DEET for adults and less than 10 percent for children. Follow label instructions when using insect repellents.
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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.
To find out more on West Nile Virus, visit the Virginia Department of Health online at www.vdh.virginia.gov. For more information on mosquito control spraying or for opting out of spraying, call the Prince William Gypsy Moth & Mosquito Control Branch at 703-792-6279. Follow the Health District on Twitter @PrinceWilliamHD or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/PrinceWilliamHealthDistrict.
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