The Allegheny County Health Department (ACHD) has reported that mosquito samples collected from Highland Park, Homewood, Point Breeze, and Wilkinsburg have tested positive for the West Nile Virus. As a measure to combat the potential spread of the virus to humans, ACHD plans to carry out pesticide treatments in the affected neighborhoods. Residents should expect to see crews using specialized Ultra Low Volume (ULV) sprayers to apply Zenevex E20, an EPA-classified low-risk insecticide that is deemed safe around humans and pets, announced by the county's statement.
The pesticide application is slated for Thursday, July 24 from 8 pm to 11 pm. If weather conditions on that day prove to be uncooperative, with the treatment being made ineffective by the rain, it will be rescheduled to the next day, July 25th, at the same time. Citizens living in these areas are advised to remain indoors during spraying operations for their peace of mind, even though the insecticide poses no significant risk to human health.
ACHD urges citizens to be proactive by eliminating standing water where mosquitoes can breed and to report potential breeding grounds through the ACHD's Housing and Community Environment Program, either online or by calling 412-350-4046. Furthermore, residents concerned that they may have contracted the virus are encouraged to consult their healthcare providers, and they can also visit the CDC website for additional information on prevention, symptoms, and transmission.
