WNV In Area

Mosquitos…carrying the West Nile virus…have been found in Steuben County. Health officials say a pool of mosquito groups were collected on Aug. 19 in the northwestern region of the county. To date, no human cases of the virus have been reported. Residents are asked to protect themselves from mosquitos because they remain active above 60 degrees and will be around until the first hard freeze. State health officials recommend…avoid places where mosquitos are biting…apply insect repellent, containing DEET, to clothes and exposed skin…install or repair screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out of the home…when possible, wear pants and long sleeves, especially when walking in wooded or marshy areas. To reduce potential mosquito breeding grounds…discard old tires, tin cans, ceramic pots or other containers that can hold water…repair failed septic systems…drill holes in the bottom of recycling containers, left outdoors…keep grass cut short and shrubbery trimmed…clean clogged roof gutters, particularly if leaves tend to plug up the drains. There’s all kinds of good information…online.