Mosquitoes in West Chester Park Test Positive for West Nile Virus

The Chester County Health Department has announced that mosquitoes caught in traps in Green Field Park on South Franklin Street have tested positive for West Nile Virus.

The health department says that the chances of contracting the disease are small, and that the chance of becoming seriously ill from West Nile are even smaller.

However, the health department advises that residents use bug repellent and avoid wet or marshy area during the dawn and dusk hours when mosquitoes are most active.

The mosquito traps were placed in various locations throughout the borough as part of routine monitoring. 

Here is a list of things to do to reduce the risk of West Nile infection provided by the health department:

• Remove or clean up any mosquito-breeding sites on your property. Stagnant water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Make sure that trash cans are not left outside uncovered, wading pools are covered or emptied, and other sources of stagnant water are eliminated.
• Keep mosquitoes out of your house. Be sure your window screens are in good condition.
• Stay indoors at dawn, dusk, and in the early evening during mosquito active periods (Usually April – October).
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when you are outdoors.
• Apply approved insect repellent to exposed skin. Follow all manufacturers instructions.
• Do not handle dead or sick birds directly. Use gloves or a long-handled shovel and bury them if not accepted for lab testing, otherwise use double or triple plastic bags and seal with a twist-tie before disposal.