Mosquito sample tests positive for West Nile Virus in Rosemont

Rosemont, Pa. (WTXF) The Montgomery County Health Department has informed Lower Merion Township that mosquitoes collected in a July 8 sample tested positive for the West Nile Virus. The sample was taken from Ashbridge Park in Rosemont.

According to the Township, they have not been notified of any action deemed necessary by the MCHD in response to this positive test, but will provide updates as further information becomes available.

Taking the following steps from the MCHD website can help reduce the risk of contracting the West Nile Virus or any other mosquito-borne illness:

-When outdoors, use repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, some oil of lemon eucalyptus or paramenthane-diol. Follow the directions on the package.
-Many mosquitoes are most active from dusk to 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 are not being used.

For more information on West Nile Virus please contact the Montgomery County Health Department at (610) 278-5117, or click here for the Department's web page on the virus.