NEWS
MONTGOMERY COUNTY OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS
COURT HOUSE, NORRISTOWN, PA., BOX 311, 19404-0311
For Information Contact:
Pam Lawn 610-278-5117, x6800
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
1st West Nile Virus positive bird: Whitpain Township, Montgomery County
NORRISTOWN, PA—(October 14, 2005)— The Montgomery County Health Department (MCHD) was notified that 1 bird, a crow, tested WNV positive from Whitpain Township and this was confirmed by the Pennsylvania Department of Health Laboratory in Lionville, PA. This is the first WNV positive bird in Montgomery County for 2005.
Since January 1, 2005, MCHD has received 287 reports of dead birds sighted in Montgomery County, 7 dead birds were sent for testing and 6 were negative and 1 positive for the WNV. MCHD has had over 400 mosquito pools tested; 11 trap samples have been positive. No confirmed human cases of active WNV Disease have been reported to MCHD.
MCHD will enhance existing larvae and adult mosquito collections in the area where the WNV positive bird was found. Additional controls will be taken as needs are identified.
West Nile Disease is not transmitted to humans by infected birds; mosquitoes are the vector.
To reduce your risk of contracting West Nile Disease here are some steps you can take:
Make sure your gutters and drainpipes are clean and running freely.
Check and repair windows and screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.
Survey your property and remove containers that collect standing water such as: old tires, cans, bottles, buckets, toys, kiddie pools, pool covers, bird baths, flowerpots and empty plant containers.
Avoid mosquito-breeding areas during peak periods of mosquito activity.
Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, making sure to cover feet and ankles.
Apply insect repellent sparingly to exposed skin. FOLLOW THE LABEL DIRECTIONS CAREFULLY. Do NOT apply to face.
NEVER ALLOW CHILDREN TO APPLY REPELLENTS. Parents should avoid applying repellents to the hands of children
Repellents should NOT be applied to very young children (less then 3 years old).
Discuss any concerns with your private physician.
Residents are requested to report dead birds to the Montgomery County Health Department at (610) 278-5117. Health Department staff will assist them in determining if the bird is suitable for testing.
For more information on WNV disease please contact the Montgomery County Health Department (610) 278-5117 or visit the Montgomery County Health Department Web Site.
