Madison County reports EEE virus in Mosquito Pool

SULLIVAN, N.Y. » Madison County Health Department was notified by the New York State Department of Health Wadsworth Laboratory that a mosquito pool from a trap located on Moore Road in the Town of Sullivan has tested positive for the Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus (EEEV).

The type of mosquito identified is primarily a bird-biting species.

EEEV is a rare but serious disease that causes encephalitis or inflammation of the brain. The Madison County Health Department warns that people over the age of 50 and younger than the age of 15 are at greatest risk for developing severe disease when infected with EEEV.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), only a few cases are reported in the United States each year. Most occur in eastern or Gulf Coast states. Approximately 30% of people with EEE die and many survivors have ongoing neurologic problems, the CDC reports.

This first positive finding of EEEV in mosquitoes in Madison County is a reminder that mosquito-borne disease is present in the area and residents should take steps daily to prevent mosquito bites, no matter where you live.

“The EEEV can be spread to a person from the bite of an infected mosquito; therefore it is very important that you use personal protection measures to prevent mosquito bites,” Madison County Public Health Di

rector Eric Faisst said in a news release.

There are several steps one can take during outdoor activities to protect against mosquito bites. These steps include wearing shoes, socks, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt. Mosquito repellent containing DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, paramenthane-diol, or 2-undecanone is also recommended to prevent mosquito bites according to manufacturer’s recommendations.

The EPA has an online insect repellent selection tool to help residents choose the right product for their needs.

Mosquitoes like to breed in watery areas that can often be found in one’s own backyard. To decrease mosquitoes around your home and yard, Madison County officials recommend the following:

• Remove or drain any pots, containers, or other items that hold water every four days

• Clean clogged rain gutters

• Turn over wading pools when not in use

• Change water in bird baths at least every four days

• Drain water from pool covers

• Use landscaping to get rid of low spots in your yard where standing water puddles

For more information or to view Madison County’s weekly mosquito test results, visit the Health Department’s website.

A mosquito sitting on skin