August 20, 2001

Broome Confirms Presence Of West Nile Virus In 2001

BINGHAMTON, NY - Broome County Executive Jeffrey P. Kraham, Binghamton Mayor Richard A. Bucci and Charles H. Wolford, Broome County Public Health Director, reported that the New York State Health Department Laboratory has confirmed evidence of West Nile Virus in an American crow found in the City of Binghamton.

Surveillance of mosquito larva in Broome County has shown the presence of the species of mosquito known to transmit West Nile Virus in approximately one-half of the catch basins sampled. The positive crow indicates that the virus may have begun concentrating in the bird population. However, based on last year's surveillance, in Broome County and around New York State, a positive bird is not unexpected. Late August and early September is the peak season for mosquitoes. Most West Nile Virus activity has occurred during this time period around the state in the past two years.

In the next few weeks, the Broome County Health Department will begin application of mosquito larval control in catch basins. Larvaciding activity will play an important role in preventing the spread of West Nile Virus by interrupting the mosquito lifecycle and preventing more adult mosquitoes from developing in catch basins. Larval control will begin in the urban core of Binghamton where catch basins have water, despite this dry summer. Future phases of larval control activity are planned for the remaining urban core of Broome County and other population centers, based on results of continued surveillance.

There are about 15,000 catch basins in Broome County but over 80,000 housing units. The most effective method for reducing the spread of West Nile Virus is for residents to eliminate standing water around their homes and places of business. The mosquitoes that are known to transmit this virus breed in artificial containers like tires, pools, birdbaths, and buckets. This species does not breed in swamps, ponds, or wetlands.

Mosquitoes need standing water to lay their eggs. To reduce the mosquito population in and around your home, Mr. Kraham urged county residents to reduce or eliminate all standing water:

• Dispose of tin cans, plastic containers, flower pots or other items that hold water;
• Remove all discarded tires from your property;
• Drill holes in the bottom of recycling bins kept outdoors;
• Clean clogged rain gutters;
• Turn over wheelbarrows and wading pools when not in use;
• Change water in birdbaths at least every four days;
• Clear vegetation and debris from the edges of ponds;
• Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs; drain pool covers; and
• Use landscaping to eliminate low spots where standing water accumulates.

Mr. Wolford urged residents not to overreact. "We do have to keep this in perspective, fewer than one percent of people who are infected will become seriously ill." No human cases of West Nile Virus were reported in Broome County during 2000. While the chances of anyone becoming ill are very small, persons over the age of 50 are at higher risk for serious illness. The best way to avoid West Nile Encephalitis is to avoid mosquito bites. Persons over the age of 50, who will be outdoors for long periods of time when mosquitoes are most active, should wear shoes and socks, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt. Consider using mosquito repellant, according to directions on the label.

Surveillance of larva, adult mosquitoes and humans will continue in cooperation with Binghamton University Biology Associate Professor Julian Shepard.

The Broome County Health Department asks residents to continue reporting any dead crows during the regular workweek, by calling 607.778.2887. Residents can call the West Nile Virus Information Line at 607.778.3911 to hear recorded information about West Nile Virus.

Older Press Releases are online for archival purposes only. If you need updated information regarding items contained in these press releases please contact the Broome County Executive's office. Thank you.