Lehigh County a Hot Zone for West Nile Virus

Lehigh County is a "hot zone" for West Nile virus, and with more rain in the forecast, residents must be vigilant to eliminate standing water where mosquitoes can breed on their property.

The hot zone designation comes from the Pa. Department of Environmental Protection, which tests mosquito samples and birds for West Nile.

Mosquitoes from South Whitehall and Upper Macungie townships tested positive for West Nile in recent weeks.

Mosquito in Upper Macungie, Lower Macungie and North Whitehall townships on Tuesday night.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, all
residents in areas where virus activity has been identified are at risk of contracting West Nile encephalitis, which can cause dangerous brain inflammation. 

Mosquito samples in 58 counties have been identified with the West Nile virus so far this year, and four human cases have been confirmed.

Here are ways to eliminate possible breeding areas in your community:

• Dispose of cans, buckets, plastic containers, ceramic pots or similar
containers that hold water on your property.

• Properly dispose of discarded tires that can collect water. Stagnant
water is where most mosquitoes breed. 

• Drill holes in the bottom of outdoor recycling containers. 

• Clean clogged roof gutters every year, particularly if the leaves from
surrounding trees tend to plug drains.

• Turn over plastic wading pools when not in use. 

• Turn over wheelbarrows and don’t let water stagnate in birdbaths. 

• Aerate ornamental pools or stock them with fish.

• Clean and chlorinate swimming pools not in use and remove any water that may collect on pool covers.