Mosquitos in two locations in Oswego County test positive for EEEV virus, officials say

Hastings, N.Y. — Mosquitos in two locations in Oswego County have tested positive for Eastern equine encephalitis virus, EEEV, officials said Wednesday.

Mosquitos tested positive in Hastings and the Village of Central Square, according to a news release from Oswego County.

The best way to prevent the disease is to prevent mosquito bites, said Oswego County Public Health Director Vera Dunsmoor.

Wearing long sleeves, pants, and socks can prevent bites as well as avoiding going out between dusk and dawn, officials said. Insect repellents that contain DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus can also help protect against mosquitos, officials said.

The virus can cause illness or neurological damage, according to the Center for Disease Control. Some people develop no symptoms and others have fever, aches, vomiting and diarrhea.

The county health department and soil and water conservation district are offering residents free mosquito dunk kits, officials said. These kits are rounds that kill mosquito larvae.

The kits can be picked up at the Oswego County Health Department, entrance B, 70 Bunner St., Oswego or at the Oswego County Soil and Water Conservation District’s front door, 3105 NYS Rte. 3, Fulton. For more information about the mosquito dunk kits officials ask residents to call 315-592-9663.

Staff writer Rylee Kirk covers breaking news, crime and public safety. Have a tip, story idea, photo, question or comment? Reach her at 315-396-5961, on Twitter @kirk_rylee, or [email protected].