Fight the Bite: Hundreds of Free Anti-Mosquito Treatments Still Available

Product Can Knock Down Disease-Causing Mosquitoes Before They Bite
 

In the wake of our region’s first fatality from West Nile Virus, and following growing discoveries of the disease in counties across the state, Central New York lawmakers are reminding homeowners that hundreds of free larvicide treatments that can knock down mosquitoes are still available.

The State Budget included funding for thousands of treatments of anti-mosquito larvicides for homeowners in six counties, as part of a broader effort to increase awareness and boost protection from insect-borne diseases. The funding was included at the request of Senator Ritchie.

“Individuals need to do all they can to protect from mosquitoes and the diseases they may carry,” said Senator Patty Ritchie. “Using these larvicide products to stop mosquitoes before they can bite will help.”

The free packets of a locally produced larvicide can be used to treat standing water, such as small pools, bird baths and ornamental ponds, where mosquitoes breed..

The state Health Department is reporting the discovery of more than 700 pools in 14 counties of mosquitoes infected with West Nile Virus, and last week reported the first death from the disease, in Onondaga County.

“It’s important that people take steps to protect themselves from the deadly West Nile Virus and EEE.  By educating people about the dangers, and providing ways that they can safeguard themselves and their families, we can save lives,” said Senator David Valesky.

"The recent West Nile Virus fatality should be a cause for concern to the residents of Central New York, and I encourage homeowners to take precautions to protect themselves by picking up a free larvacide kit to combat this serious problem," said Senator John A. DeFrancisco.
 
"New York has the tragic distinction of being the first state in the nation to identify WNV disease over a decade ago. We're now witnessing the worst year ever for this national health crisis," added Senator Joe Griffo. "I urge residents to be aware of their surroundings and to take precautions in their exposure in areas where mosquitoes can grow and breed."

“Awareness is key, but so is taking proactive steps  to avoid being bitten by potentially infected bugs,” said Assemblyman Will Barclay.  “By using these free larvicide kits, we can protect ourselves from mosquitoes and the diseases they carry."

On Friday, the Health Department reported 11 known human cases of West Nile Virus, including two cases in Onondaga County, and one in Oswego County.

Infected mosquitoes have been found in Chautaqua, Erie, Nassau, Onondaga, Oswego, Rockland, Suffolk and Westchester Counties, as well as all five boroughs of New York City.

As of late last week, the following communities still had free mosquito larvicides available in the quantities noted. They are available on a first come, first serve basis, and there is a limit of one packet per household.

Additional tips on avoiding mosquito bites may be found here.