For more information about mosquito control, contact the Marion County Health Department at (317) 221-7440.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE For immediate release September 6, 2005

Contact: John T. Althardt, (317) 221-2316

2006 Marion County Health Department Mosquito Fact Sheet

The Marion County Health Department has confirmed another positive pool of mosquitoes with the West Nile virus, this time in Center Township, bringing the total number of positive testing sites to four. The sites are located in Lawrence, Washington, Warren and Center Townships.

Local health officials say the early portion of the mosquito season is normal when compared to previous years. They also say although testing sites have not confirmed mosquitoes with the virus in all areas of the county, it is safe to assume they are.

There have been no reported cases of West Nile virus in humans so far this year.

The sites are located in Lawrence, Washington, Warren and Center Townships.

“What we know is that mosquito season is here and now is the time for Marion County residents to take appropriate precautions,” said Chuck Dulla, administrator for the health agency’s mosquito control program.

Among precautions local residents can take:

Regularly clean, cover or store any object that is capable of holding water.

Make certain gutters are working properly.

Clean birdbaths, outdoor water bowls and garden ponds.

Clean wading and swimming pools.

Discard any unused tires.

Health department technicians have documented mosquito larvae in discarded Styrofoam cups holding small amounts of water.

Individuals going outdoors in the late afternoon, early evening or early morning should wear long sleeve shirts, long pants and use mosquito repellent to lower the risk of being bitten by mosquitoes most likely to carry the West Nile virus.

The Marion County Health Department has a variety of free services to assist local residents with mosquito problems. For more information, contact the Marion County Health Department at (317) 221-7440.