Take The Bite Out Of Summer; County Offers Tips On Mosquito Control To Prevent West Nile Virus

Header--Montgomery County, Maryland. Press Releases

Ma/westnile.pr 00-238

Contact: Carol Jordan, 240-777-1790

For Immediate Release: June 15, 2000

Take The Bite Out Of Summer;
County Offers Tips On Mosquito
Control To Prevent West Nile Virus

The emergence last fall of West Nile virus, a pathogen never before seen in the Western hemisphere, was a sobering reminder of the role mosquitoes play in causing serious disease. Mosquitoes that feed on infected birds carry West Nile virus and mosquitoes transmit the virus to humans, birds, and some other mammals. West Nile virus can cause a range of illness from mild flu-like symptoms to encephalitis, a brain infection, and even death. Most people, however, can be infected and have no symptoms at all.

"While there have been no confirmed cases of West Nile Virus in the state of Maryland, the Centers for Disease Control has recommended increased surveillance for the presence of West Nile Virus in Maryland and other mid-Atlantic states that are on the migratory pathway of East Coast birds," said Dr. Carol Garvey, health officer for Montgomery County. "Public health officials and the state are closely monitoring mosquitoes and birds so that they will know if West Nile virus comes to our area. We are also stepping up surveillance efforts with area hospitals to identify any cases of encephalitis."

Getting rid of places where mosquitoes breed is the most important prevention measure to take, according to health officials.

Eliminate standing water where mosquitoes breed: discard used tires, clean roof gutters and down-spout screens, eliminate standing water on flat roofs, turn over plastic wading pools, wheelbarrows, canoes and garbage can lids, fix dripping water faucets, eliminate puddles from window air-conditioners, and flush birdbaths and the bottom of potted plant holder trays twice a week.

Protect against mosquito bites: avoid outdoor activities in early morning and dusk, wear long sleeve shirts and long pants outdoors, fix or replace screens with holes, and use insect repellents (for adults, 20-30% DEET). Consult your pediatrician for the appropriate insect repellent for children.

"West Nile virus may not come to Montgomery County this summer," said Garvey, "but it's best to use caution and do what you can to reduce exposure to mosquitoes."

For more information about West Nile Virus, visit Montgomery County's Department of Environmental Protection web site at www.askdep.com and click on the mosquito icon.

For more information:

State HOTLINE: 1-888 584-3110
Used Tire Disposal: 301 840-2370
Stagnant Water on Private Property: 240 777-3600
Storm Drain Blockage: 240 777-7623
Storm water ponds: 240 777-7700
Communicable Disease Program: 240 777-1755
Email: help@askDEP.com

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