West Nile virus found in bird of Anderson company, start of mosquito spraying

BELTON, S.C. (WSPA) – Teams plan to spray mosquitoes in Anderson County after confirming a new case of West Nile virus.

According to the Anderson County Sheriff's Office, the virus would have been discovered in a bird near the intersection of Stringer and Old Williamston Roads in Belton.

The Emergency Management Division, in coordination with Gregory Pest Solutions, the county pest control contractor, will spray the affected area within one kilometer of the location where the dead bird was found.

The sprays will begin Monday night and include the placement of larvicide briquettes in standing water on public lands and in manholes, according to the sheriff's office.

The sheriff's office said there were no confirmed cases of West Nile virus in humans in Anderson County.

The Sheriff's Office gave the following advice to residents living in the area:

The water-based pesticide used in spraying poses no risk to the health of humans or animals; however, beekeepers with hives in the area should arrange to move or cover the hives until the end of the spray. All local beekeeping organizations are notified.

Larvicide briquettes placed in stagnant water areas to reduce the threat of mosquitoes must not be handled or disturbed by the public and will remain effective until 45 days after placement.

A CodeRed alert message will be sent to residents within a kilometer of the location of the infected bird to warn them of spraying projects and redirect them to the Web site of the Management Division. emergencies for more information.

Residents are reminded of the most effective ways to prevent mosquito-borne diseases, including West Nile virus:

• Repellents prevent mosquitoes from biting. Apply an insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, lemon eucalyptus oil or IR 3535 according to the label directions.
• Make sure your doors and windows have well-fitting screens to prevent mosquitoes.
• Eliminate all sources of stagnant water on your property, including flowerpots, gutters, buckets, pool covers, bird baths, old car tires, gutters and the bowls for pets.
• Wearing light colored clothing to cover the skin reduces the risk of bites.