DATE: 9/27/05

CONTACT: Eric Benson, (864) 656-7860

WRITER: Diane Palmer, (864) 656-4741 

Use common sense to prevent West Nile Virus

CLEMSON – Most of the time mosquitoes are only annoying. However, some mosquitoes are spreading West Nile Virus in South Carolina, such as the case of a Darlington woman who died of the virus and a crow in Oconee County that was recently reported to have been tested positive of the virus.  

In addition, 12 birds and six mosquito pools have been reported to be tested positive this year from Charleston County; a blue jay, one mosquito pool and four birds and one mosquito pool from Aiken County; and a mosquito pool in Pickens County has also tested positive this season.

A mosquito pool is a group of mosquitoes of the same species collected from the same location on the same date.

“West Nile Virus is definitely in the state, and everyone should take a common sense approach,” said Eric Benson, Clemson Extension entomologist.

The virus is transmitted to humans and animals from the bite of a mosquito that has fed on birds that have the virus. The time between the mosquito bite and the person becoming sick is usually 5 to 15 days.

To protect yourself, wear long-sleeve shirts and long pants when outdoors, stay indoors at dawn and, and use fine-mesh screens on windows and doors. If you decide to use an insect repellent, follow the label directions and precautions. Many products containing either DEET, picaridin or oil of eucalyptus are available and quite effective. See http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/factsheets/insectrp.htm by the EPA for more detailed information for selecting a repellent.

Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water that stands for more than a week.

“There are some homeowner products that can be added to small water systems to kill the wrigglers. These products are usually a floating device that releases a bacterium, Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (B.t.i.), into the water. When the larvae  feed on the bacteria, they die,” said Benson.

If applied properly, these products will not hurt children, pets or wildlife. They are designed to treat only small containers, tree holes or ponds.

Large bodies of water should be treated only by mosquito control professionals. As with repellents, any insecticide product should be applied according to label directions, according to Benson.

Other ways to eliminate mosquito-breeding areas are:

Dispose of cans, bottles and plastic containers. Store items to be recycled in covered trashcans or sealed bags.

• Eliminate discarded tires. Drill drainage holes in tires used for playground equipment.
• Clean roof gutters and downspout screens regularly. Eliminate standing water on flat roofs.
• Turn over plastic wading pools, wheelbarrows and canoes.
• Do not leave garbage can lids upside down. Do not allow water to collect in the bottom of garbage cans.
• Flush birdbaths and potted plant saucers and trays twice a week.
• Adjust tarps over grills, firewood piles, boats and swimming pools to eliminate standing water.
• Re-grade drainage areas and clean debris out of ditches to eliminate standing water in low spots.
• Clean and chlorinate swimming pools. Aerate garden ponds.
• Fix dripping water faucets and eliminate puddles from under air conditioners.
• Store pet food and water bowls indoors when not in use.

END