More EEE Found In Oswego County

The Oswego County Public Information Office reports another mosquito sample has tested positive for Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) virus collected near Central Square. This area was sprayed September 4th.

Recently a town of Salina resident who was diagnosed with the Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus (EEE) infection has died. This was the first EEE death since Maggie Wilcox of Oswego died in 2011 at age 4 from the virus. The sixth death in CNY of the EEE virus since 1971.

 Oswego County Public Health Director Jiancheng Huang:

"Mosquito populations are substantially reduced; however, those that remain may still be infected with the EEE or West Nile viruses," said Oswego County Public Health Director Jiancheng Huang."These viruses will remain in our environment until the first heavy frost occurs. Until we have a killing frost, people in all areas of Oswego County need to remain vigilant and fully protect themselves from mosquito bites."

 Huang advises people to continue to use insect repellents. Those containing DEET are the most effective, but should be used with caution and according to label instructions. Products containing picaridin and oil of lemon eucalyptus are also effective.

Residents should also limit outdoor activities around dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active; wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, shoes and socks when outdoors; and eliminate standing water around the home.

For more information about EEE and other viruses transmitted by mosquitoes, call the Oswego County Health Department at 315-349-3564 or 1-800-596-3200, ext. 3564 between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. weekdays or visit the Oswego County Health Department's website at www.oswegocounty.com/health. After 4 p.m., call 341-0086.

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