NAMPA, Idaho — The Canyon County Mosquito Abatement District said five more mosquito samples tested positive for West Nile virus last week in the north part of Nampa. As the Labor Day weekend gets closer, residents of Canyon County should protect themselves from mosquitoes and the West Nile virus.
The abatement district sets eight gravid traps and 120 dry ice baited EVS traps in Canyon County to watch for adult mosquito populations and the presence of "vector-borne diseases." So far this year, the abatement district has test 1,474 pools for West Nile virus, 18 of which tested positive.
Canyon County Mosquito Abatement District staff has increased surveillance and control measures in response to the increased public health threat, according to a news release.
“With the increased risk of West Nile virus, we encourage people to take appropriate precautions to protect themselves from mosquito bites while enjoying the outdoors over the Holiday weekend,” said Jim Lunders, Director Canyon County Mosquito Abatement District.
Some ways to reduce the risk of exposure to West Nile virus include:
- Eliminate all sources of standing water that can be a breeding ground for biting mosquitoes such as flooded fields, wading pools, clogged gutters and old tires. If it holds water for 7 days it can produce mosquitoes.
- Flush or change water in water troughs and birdbaths weekly.
- Avoid overwatering which causes runoff to city storms drains and other areas that hold water.
- Avoid outdoor activities at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when in mosquito-infested areas.
- Use mosquito repellents containing DEET, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus, IR3535 or Picaridin making sure to follow the directions on the container.
- Make sure all screen doors and windows are in good repair and fit tightly.
- Notify the District at 208-461-8633 if you have a site that is too large to be eliminated so it can be properly treated.
