West Nile Virus Spraying Continues
Published on September 06, 2024
PITTSBURGH – Mosquito samples collected in, and around the Pittsburgh neighborhoods of Brighton Heights, Marshall Shadeland, California- Kirkbride, Chartiers and the boroughs of Leetsdale, Edgeworth, and Sewickley continue to test positive for West Nile Virus.
In response, the Allegheny County Health Department (ACHD) will treat portions of the identified communities with a pesticide called Zenevex E20. It is classified by the EPA as a low-risk insecticide as it is not harmful to humans or pets. Crews will use a truck mounted Ultra Low Volume (ULV) sprayer on Tuesday September 10th, from 8pm to 11pm, to lower the local mosquito population and minimize the risk of human transmission.
In the event of rain, spraying will take place the following evening, Wednesday September 11th, during those same hours.
West Nile Virus is the leading mosquito borne disease in the United States. It is spread to people by bites from infected mosquitoes. Cases of West Nile Virus occur during mosquito season, which starts in the spring and continues through the fall. There have been two reported human cases of West Nile Virus within Allegheny County so far this year.
Most people infected with West Nile Virus do not feel sick. Only one in five people infected with the virus develop a fever and other symptoms, such as a headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Less than one percent of infected people develop a serious illness.
The species of mosquito that carry West Nile Virus are active from dusk to dawn. Residents can deter mosquito bites by using insect repellent on exposed skin or choosing to wear long sleeves and pants. Both methods are effective at reducing or eliminating the possibility of getting a mosquito bite.
There are no vaccines to prevent or medications to treat West Nile Virus. Residents who believe they, or someone they know, have West Nile Virus should consult a health care provider for evaluation and diagnosis.
County residents play an important role when it comes to reducing the area’s mosquito population. Mosquitoes can breed in as little as a half inch of stagnant water, so residents should pay close attention to potential breeding sites like stagnant water in tires, unused swimming pools, buckets, corrugated piping, and clogged gutters.
Residents can report mosquito breeding sites on both private properties and public areas to the ACHD’s Housing and Community Environment Program by completing its online form or calling 412-350-4046.
For more information on West Nile Virus, including frequently asked questions about prevention, symptoms, and transmission, visit the CDC’s West Nile Virus webpage.
Media inquiries may be directed to the Communications Office.
For contact information, including email addresses and telephone numbers, visit the office website.