MOSQUITO CONTROL
The City of Laramie has elevated the rating of the risk of West Nile virus (WNv) infection to Level 2 (Low risk) in accordance with the City’s West Nile Virus plan. This change is due to the positive result of a WNv test performed on a sample of mosquitoes collected in the Laramie area during the week of August 22nd through August 27th 2010. This test was conducted with the City’s testing equipment and will also be sent for confirmatory testing to the State of Wyoming laboratory. Presently no human cases of West Nile virus have been reported in Albany County. Wyoming Department of Health is reporting one (1) positive human case in the state at this time in Goshen County. Positive mosquito samples have also been detected in Fremont and Goshen Counties. Regionally, Colorado is reporting ten (10) human cases including three (3) cases in Weld County and two (2) in Larimer County. Nebraska is reporting eight (8) human cases.
Current surveillance locally, shows low to moderate numbers of vector mosquitoes being collected at trap locations adjacent to the big Laramie River and very low vector numbers at residential sites within the city limits. Testing of collected mosquitoes has resulted in this single positive sample from one hundred twelve (112) sample mosquito pools tested so far this season. Mosquito control has suspended all fogging activities to control adult mosquitoes at this time due to the low numbers of mosquitoes being collected. Fogging could be resumed if conditions such as increased vector activity, confirmed human infection or high levels of infected mosquitoes are detected. Citizens are reminded that WNV can infect people of all ages but the elderly may be at the greatest risk for a serious infection. Locally, the mosquitoes that transmit WNV are most active at dusk and citizens should limit activities in areas with high mosquito populations during this time. Repairing screens, especially in sleeping rooms, and using personal protection such as proper clothing and insect repellent can also reduce the risk. Further Wyoming information can be found on line at: http://www.badskeeter.org/ or the Centers for Disease Control website: http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/
PEST MANAGEMENT IN PARKS
Integrated pest management is continuing applications of herbicides to control weeds and unwanted vegetation in City parks and Recreation areas. Applied chemicals will have a visible blue dye incorporated into the mixture so citizens can distinguish treated areas. Treatment areas will also be signed 24 hours before and after the application.
Schedules regarding Mosquito Control and Parks and Cemetery chemical applications for control of weeds and insect pests are available daily on the Mosquito Control and Integrated Pest Management Hotline at 721-5056. The schedule is available at approximately 4pm daily. For further information contact Keith Wardlaw, Mosquito Control Crew Supervisor at 721-5258 or Mike Zook, Parks Manager at 721-5264.
