New case of West Nile virus confirmed in SC bird

A new case of West Nile virus was confirmed this week in a bird found in Anderson County.

The bird was found near the intersection of Stringer Road and Old Williamston Road in Belton.

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

Weather permitting, spraying will occur late Monday evening, October 15, 2018, and will include the placement of larvicide briquettes in standing water on public land and in manholes.

There is still no confirmed human case of West Nile virus in Anderson County; However, the Emergency Management Division continues mitigation and mitigation measures mandated by the DHEC in the affected areas.

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.

For more information on West Nile Virus and other mosquito-borne diseases, as well as on other important tips, follow @ACSCEMD on Facebook and Twitter or visit the following websites:

https://emd.andersonsheriff.org/wnv

http://www.scdhec.gov/HomeAndEnvironment/Insects/Mosquitoes/

https://www.cdc.gov/westnile/index.html