CANYON COUNTY, Ida. — The Canyon County Mosquito Abatement District says more mosquitoes have tested positive for West Nile virus.
The Culex species mosquitoes were found in two traps collected June 26 near Parma. One trap was located just north of Parma, off Apple Valley Road. Another trap was south of Parma, just off Sand Road.
Both traps were tested by the Mosquito Abatement District and registered a high virus reading. The results were later confirmed by the Idaho Bureau of Laboratories.
Nighttime Ultra-Low Volume (or "fogging") started Friday, June 28, and were repeated Tuesday, July 2, during the evening hours. The "fogging" will help reduce the number of Culex species (West Nile virus carrying) mosquitoes. Larvicide application activities in the area have been ongoing and will continue for the rest of the week.
On July 19, another trap north of Parma contained a mosquito that tested positive for the virus.
With Independence Day celebrations starting and people spending time outside, it is very important to avoid mosquito bites by covering exposed skin and wearing mosquito repellent. Also remember the SEVEN D’s:
· DRAIN any standing water on your property that may breed mosquitoes and remember, do not over irrigate.
· DAWN and DUSK are times to avoid outdoors.
· DRESS appropriately by wearing long sleeve shirts and long pants when outdoors.
· DEFEND yourself against mosquitoes by using an insect repellent.
· DOOR and window screens should be in good conditions to prevent mosquitoes form entering your home.
· DISTRICT personnel are here to help address mosquito problems that you may be experiencing.
For more information on West Nile virus, click here. You can also find out what's happening locally here.
