West Nile Information
What is West Nile Virus?
Symptoms
Prevention
Protection
Town Efforts
Message from the Supervisor
Helpful Websites
What is West Nile Virus?
West Nile Virus is a mosquito-borne infection that can
lead to encephalitis. In 1999, the virus was identified in downstate New York.
No dead birds have registered as positive for West Nile Virus in Saratoga County (as of
December 31, 2007).
The risk of contracting the virus is very small. It is estimated
that less than 1% of people who are infected will become seriously ill, with people over
50 years old at highest risk.
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Symptoms
Symptoms can range from a mild flu-like headache and fever, to
severe illness. In the most severe cases, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) could
occur.
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Prevention
A major tool in the prevention of the West Nile Virus is the
elimination of breeding habitat. Mosquitoes prefer to breed in standing/stagnant water.
Usually, the water is shallow and wind sheltered. Here are some simple things you can do
around the house to reduce such habitat:
- Empty any containers that may collect water. For example, plastic
containers, old tires, ceramic pots, cans, etc.
- Periodically drain bird baths and pool covers.
- Turn over wheelbarrows and wading pools when not in use.
- Maintain gutters (keep them clear of debris), pools (keep chlorinated)
and ornamental ponds (ornamental ponds can be stocked with natural enemies to mosquitoes
like goldfish or mosquito fish).
- Drill holes in recycling bins to allow rainwater to drain out.
- Large areas of standing water such as old unused pools, small ponds,
and water filled depressions on property may be difficult to drain but can be treated with
BTI dunks.
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Protection
Along with prevention comes protection. Here are some helpful tips:
- Residents are advised to inspect the screens in their homes for holes
and make the necessary repairs so mosquitoes cannot get in.
- Avoid leaving doors open at home
- Wear insect repellent when outdoors. Be sure to use insect repellent properly
especially on children. ALWAYS READ THE LABEL!
- Cover up with loose fitting, lightweight clothing from dusk to dawn.
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Town Efforts
As you may know by now, West Nile Virus is in the Capital Region to
stay. Some municipalities sprayed for mosquitoes, but we chose a different avenue to
suppress their population. BTI, an acronym for Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis is a
bacteria that specifically targets mosquito larvae. Wafers of BTI called "dunks"
are light, small, and easy to use. One "dunk" will treat an area of 100-sq. ft.
for up to 30 days. The BTI is harmless to humans, plants, and animals but deadly to
mosquito larvae.
The "dunks" are free to Clifton Park
residents and can be picked up at the Town Hall. A limited number of "dunks" will
be distributed to all residents who request them, but please bring proof of residency. What is a good breeding area? Please refer to the prevention
section for that information.
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Message from the Supervisor
Dear Neighbor:
Thank you for taking the time to browse this website. It is not
meant to alarm anyone, but simply provide information about mosquito control and the West
Nile Virus. With your help we can greatly minimize the mosquito population and therefore
reduce the threat of the virus. Please take the few simple precautions listed to protect
yourself and your family. Thank you for your help. Questions or Concerns?
Please call me at 371-6651.
Sincerely,
Phil Barrett, Town Supervisor
Helpful
Websites
NYS Dept. of Health WNV
(West Nile Virus)
CDC's Division of Vector-Borne
Infectious Diseases
USGS WNV
Lyme Disease -- Mosquito
Dunks --
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