Created on Thursday, 16 July 2009 15:56

Contact: Collette DuValle, 317-373-2391

Mosquitoes With West Nile Virus Confirmed in Marion County

Laboratory testing by the Marion County Health Department has confirmed the first group of mosquitoes carrying the West Nile virus. Samples taken from Lawrence Township tested positive for the virus.

“This is consistent with what we expected to see and is a reminder that mosquitoes with the virus are likely active throughout the county. This just happened to be the first confirmed test,” said Chuck Dulla, administrator, Marion County Mosquito Control.

The health department reminds local residents to assist in reducing potential mosquito breeding sites by taking a five-minute walk around their home. Any containers capable of holding even a small amount of water should be regularly cleaned, stored indoors or covered. Unused tires, clogged gutters, small recreational pools and poorly operating septic systems also are potential mosquito breeding sites.

Those with questions concerning mosquitoes are encouraged to contact the Marion County Health Department at 221-7440. The health department offers a variety of free services to assist with mosquito-related issues.