West Nile Information
West Nile Virus (WNV) is a mosquito-borne virus that was first detected in Pennsylvania in 2000, with the first cases detected in Lancaster County in 2001. The virus is endemic in the County's bird populations and can be spread to humans and horses via mosquitos.
Most people infected with WNV experience no symptoms or mild symptoms. In less than 1% of infections (1 in 150) symptoms can be severe and can include fever, headache, neck stiffness, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, paralysis, and possibly death.
The mosquitos that transmit WNV (culex) are small, brown mosquitos that feed primarily from dusk until dawn. Day-biting mosquitos (such as Asian Tiger Mosquitos) are not typically associated with WNV. Long sleeves, long pants, and approved repellents are all effective ways to help prevent mosquito bites.
Mosquitos need only a bottle-cap of water to breed, and are weak flyers. If they are biting you around your yard, they are most likely breeding there or at a neighboring property. Emptying water from containers (including clogged gutters, tarps, and wheelbarrows) every week, and treating areas of standing water with a larvicide every month can be effective to reduce mosquito habitat around your home.
West Nile Information & Infographics - Lancaster-Lebanon Mosquito-Borne Disease Control Program
West Nile Info Sheet
Lancaster-Lebanon Mosquito-Borne Disease Control Program Homepage
PA DEP West Nile Virus Control Program