Mosquitoes carrying the West Nile Virus have been detected in more than half of Pennsylvania's counties, according to the state's Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). The virus, which spreads through mosquito bites, poses a risk primarily to birds but can also affect humans. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that while most people bitten by an infected mosquito do not develop symptoms, about one in 150 may experience severe illness, which can sometimes be fatal.
The DEP is actively spraying at-risk counties as part of its Mosquito-Borne Disease Program. However, residents are advised to take additional precautions. These include wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks during peak mosquito activity at dawn and dusk. The DEP also recommends using insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or lemon eucalyptus oil to prevent bites.
The virus has been present in Pennsylvania since the early 2000s and continues to cycle between birds and mosquitoes during the summer and fall. Humans are considered "dead-end" hosts, meaning the virus does not spread from person to person. There is currently no specific treatment for West Nile Virus, so prevention remains crucial.
To reduce mosquito breeding grounds, the DEP advises residents to eliminate standing water around their homes, as mosquitoes thrive in wet conditions. This summer's heavy rains and flooding in Pennsylvania have created ideal conditions for mosquito breeding.
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dep/programs-and-services/integration/vector-management/mosquitoes.html