Three new cases of confirmed West Nile avian influenza infection

Three new cases of West Nile virus were confirmed this week in dead birds found in Anderson County. The birds were located near the following intersections:

• A Mr. Ellison Rd. And Highway 81 N. Anderson, SC
• Chestnut Springs and Mountain View Rd. Williamston, SC
• Highway 86 and highway. 81 N. Easley, SC

The Emergency Management Division, which uses Gregory Pest Solutions, a state-approved pest control supplier, will spray affected areas within 1 mile of these areas. Weather permitting, spraying will take place late Friday night on October 5th and will continue until Saturday morning, October 6th.

Truck mounted sprayers will be used to apply the pesticide to the affected areas. In addition, the contractor will place larvicide briquettes in standing water on public land, including culverts and manholes.

No confirmed human cases of the disease have occurred in Anderson County; However, the Emergency Management Division continues to implement appropriate mitigation and response measures in accordance with DHEC guidelines.

The Aquareslin water-based pesticide used in spraying poses no health risk to humans or animals; however, beekeepers with hives in the area should arrange to move and / 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 should not be handled or disturbed by the public and will remain effective until 45 days after placement.

A CodeRed message will be sent tonight and tomorrow night to all residents within a radius of less than one kilometer from the location of infected birds to warn them of spraying projects.

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 instructions on the label.
• Make sure your doors and windows have mosquito nets snug 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.

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