The Utah County Health Department announced on Monday, Aug. 11, that West Nile Virus (WNV) has been detected in mosquitos in the county.
“We received a positive test result for West Nile virus in two groups of Culex pipien mosquitos,” said Lance Madigan, UCHD public information officer. “One batch came from the south county area near Springville, and a second from west of Orem.”
Residents in other parts of the county should be wary, as mosquitos can commute long distances. “Mosquitos can fly a great distance, even up to 10 miles,” Madigan said. “We also have heard positive tests from all over the state.”
Madigan said that while spraying by Utah County Mosquito Abatement staff helps reduce the number of mosquitos in an area, personal vigilance is key in preventing the spread of the virus. The Utah County Health Department suggests the following prevention measures:
- Avoid outdoor activities, such as gardening, at dusk through dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.
- If outside during the periods when mosquitoes are most active, cover up by wearing long-sleeved shirts, pants, shoes and socks.
- Use mosquito repellents with DEET. Follow product directions for children and how often it should be applied.
- Eliminate standing water in tires or similar water-holding containers, as these may serve as mosquito breeding sites.
- Change the water in birdbaths at least weekly.
For information about WNV or Utah County mosquito abatement efforts, visit www.UtahCountyHealth.org or call 801-851-7637.
