Erie County Mosquitoes Test Positive for Viruses

Erie, PA - The Erie County Department of Health confirms that a mosquito group collected in Waterford Township and a group collected in Millcreek Township on Aug. 1, 2024 have each tested positive for Jamestown Canyon Virus (JCV). These are the second and third groups to test positive for JCV in Erie County this year.

One mosquito group collected in Millcreek Township on July 30, 2024 has tested positive for West Nile Virus. This is the fourth group to test positive for West Nile Virus in Erie County this year.

At this time, no human cases of either virus have been reported in Erie County. Additional monitoring for mosquitoes will be done in the area where these samples were collected. Appropriate control work will be conducted depending on the number and types of mosquitoes found.

Both West Nile virus and Jamestown Canyon virus are spread to people by infected mosquitoes. Most people do not develop symptoms while some will have fever, headache and fatigue. These viruses can cause severe disease, including encephalitis (swelling of the brain). Reduce the risk of infection by preventing mosquito bites. If you think you or a family member might be infected, talk with your healthcare provider.

Testing for JCV in mosquitoes is part of additional testing capacities of the statewide Mosquito Disease Control program.

Prevent mosquito bites with the following tips:

• Insect repellants with DEET can be applied (sparingly) to exposed skin. Spray thin clothing with repellent since mosquitoes can bite through it. Be sure to follow all directions on product labels.
• Stay indoors at dawn, dusk, and in the early evening when mosquitoes are most active. If you must go outdoors, wear a long-sleeved shirt and long pants.
• Use the proper type of lighting outside. Incandescent lights attract mosquitoes, while florescent lights neither attract nor repel mosquitoes.
• Products such as "mosquito dunks" can be obtained from garden centers.
• Make sure window and door screens are "bug tight."
• Mosquitoes are repelled by high winds, so electric fans may provide some relief at outdoor events.

More information is available at dep.pa.gov.