Update on Cambria County's West Nile Virus Program
Cambria
County began a program in 2000 to survey for the presence of West Nile
Virus carrying mosquitoes. Now the program has come full circle to include
control and abatement. Illegal dumps containing tires, old appliances
and construction debris are a major contributor to increasing the local
mosquito population.
As PA CleanWays
continues to implement the West Nile Virus program in Cambria County,
we hope to educate our local residents about ways to reduce their risk
for contracting West Nile Virus by removing potential mosquito breeding
areas. These can range from birdbaths, unmaintained swimming pools,
children's large outdoor playsets that hold standing water and of course,
old tires and debris. Wet areas in a yard, drainage swales and stormwater
inlets can also create a breeding area for mosquitoes.
Take any necessary
precautions early in the season to monitor these sites for mosquito
activity. Mosquito populations can be reduced by purchasing pesticide
materials at your local home and garden store or by removing the standing
water regularly. Mosquitoes do not travel long distances. Therefore,
if you have a mosquito problem the source for these insects is more
than likely close by.
If you cannot locate
the source or if the problem is significant, contact
Mary Vibostok, the Executive Director of PA CleanWays of Cambria County
and the county's West Nile Virus Surveillance Coordinator, for help.
