West Nile found in Valley mosquitoes

Three mosquitoes bearing the West Nile virus have been trapped in Carson Valley prompting another round of aerial spraying.

Mosquito Abatement District Manager Krista Jenkins said the tests came back positive this week.

The district traps mosquitoes weekly to test them for West Nile virus. Jenkins said there is a two-week turnaround for results.

One of the mosquitoes was found at Buckeye and East Valley Road and the other two were at the corner of Highway 395 and Johnson Lane.

Jenkins said the district did aerial spraying on Wednesday and ground fogged around the Johnson Lane pool.

"We trapped there Monday night to monitor the mosquitoes," she said. "People need to be aware that West Nile is here to stay. They need to take precautions and protect themselves."

The Mosquito Abatement District is in charge for reducing the mosquito population in the East Fork Township. It also contracts to handle mosquito abatement at Lake Tahoe.

As part of its work, the district has two trucks it uses to spray, and it contracts with aerial sprayers to fly over portions of the Valley.

Wednesday's was the second time aircraft have been used against mosquitoes in the Valley.

Residents can contact the mosquito district at 782-4642.

The easiest and best way to avoid WNV is to prevent mosquito bites.

• When you are outdoors, use insect repellent containing an EPA-registered active ingredient. Follow the directions on the package.

• Many mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn. Be sure to use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants at these times or consider staying indoors during these hours.

• Make sure you have good screens on your windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out.

• Get rid of mosquito breeding sites by emptying standing water from flower pots, buckets and barrels. Change the water in pet dishes and replace the water in bird baths weekly. • • • Drill holes in tire swings so water drains out. Keep children's wading pools empty and on their sides when they aren't being used.