More mosquitoes in Onondaga County have tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis — a virus that can sometimes cause deadly inflammation of the brain, health officials said Friday.
The Onondaga County Health Department said it’s planning to spray the Cicero Swamp and the surrounding area on Monday to curb the mosquito population.
EEE-positive mosquitoes were found in the county for the first time this year Aug. 16.
On Friday, the health department said EEE was detected in more mosquitoes taken from traps on Route 298 and Island Road
Residents in the spray areas will be notified by phone with a 911 emergency notification, officials said. Weather conditions may delay the spraying.
The EEE virus is spread through infected mosquito bites. People over 50 and kids younger than 15 are at greatest risk of developing the rare disease associated with the virus.
Only a few cases of the disease are reported in the U.S. each year, officials said. About 30% who get it die and many survivors have serious ongoing neurologic problems, they said.
To lower chances of infection, health officials recommend people wear long clothing, use insect repellent and remove standing water, which can become breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
Staff writer Fernando Alba covers breaking news, crime and public safety. Have a tip, story idea, question or comment? Reach him: Email | Twitter or at 315-690-6950.
Read the full article here
Leave a Reply