Mosquitoes collected in a trap in northwestern Emmett have tested positive for West Nile virus, according to the Gem County Mosquito Abatement District.
Director Jason Kinley says results of the West Nile virus tests on mosquitoes collected on July 5 were confirmed on July 6 by the GCMAD surveillance department.
“District personnel have identified the source that is producing the kind of mosquitoes that transmit West Nile virus. Only one sample tested positive for the disease so far this season. This indicates that even though there is West Nile virus in some mosquitoes in the area, the findings do not warrant any deviation from standard operating procedures,” said Kinley.
Gem County joins Canyon and Payette Counties with West Nile virus-positive mosquito pools. “Fortunately, so far, there are no human cases and no reports of positive horses,” said Southwest District Health Department spokesperson Laurie Boston.
Experts say people can protect themselves from West Nile virus by following the “Seven D’s” to avoid mosquito bites:
DRAIN any standing water on your property that may produce mosquitoes.
DAWN and DUSK are times for people to avoid the outdoors.
DRESS appropriately by wearing long sleeves and pants when outdoors.
DEFEND yourself against mosquitoes by using an insect repellant.
DOOR and window screens should be in good condition to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.
DISTRICT personnel are here to help address any mosquito problem your family may be experiencing.
District officials are finding and treating any standing water that is producing mosquitoes and making applications to control adult mosquitoes, also known as fogging. District-wide fogging applications will continue in all areas of the district, officials said.
