“More Mosquito Pools Test Positive for West Nile Virus”

This summer our County has been dealing with very humid conditions, which are the perfect breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Over the past two weeks, we’ve seen a significant uptick in the number of mosquito pools testing positive for WNV. In fact, approximately 50% of the mosquito pools tested recently have come back positive.

This increase is a reminder that we need to stay vigilant about mosquito-borne diseases. Although we have not yet reported any human cases of West Nile Virus this season (the last was in 2023), the rise in positive mosquito pools signals an increased risk to our community’s health.

As Amy Isenberg, our Rockland County Department of Health (RDCOH) Environmental Health Specialist and Mosquito Program Coordinator, points out, this time of year often sees a rise in WNV activity.

Our RCDOH teams are working hard to control mosquito populations by visiting breeding sites and applying larvicides throughout the summer. However, effective mosquito control also starts in your own backyard.

Here’s what you can do to help:

1. Eliminate Standing Water: Mosquitoes breed in standing water. Remove stagnant water from birdbaths, flowerpots, discarded tires, and other containers. Make sure your roof gutters drain properly and clean up any leaf debris in your yard.

2. Treat Unused Pools or Spas: Drain or treat standing water in unused pools or spas with Mosquito Dunks®. You can pick up these Dunks for free at the Health Department, Building D, 50 Sanatorium Road in Pomona. Call 845-364-3173 or email wnv@co.rockland.ny.us to arrange a pickup.

To protect yourself and your loved ones from mosquito bites:

 Dress Appropriately: Wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts, especially during peak mosquito activity times.

 Use Repellents: Apply mosquito repellent on exposed skin. Note that repellents should not be used on babies younger than 2 months old, and products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus or para-menthane-diol should not be used on children under 3 years old.

 Cover Baby Carriers: Use mosquito netting over baby carriers when outdoors.

 Check Screens: Ensure that all windows and doors have intact screens without rips or holes.

If you have concerns about mosquito breeding in your neighborhood or need to report standing water, please contact us at 845-364-3173 or submit a complaint form.

Let’s work together to keep Rockland County safe and healthy.