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West Nile Virus Detected in Cumberland County Mosquitoes: What You Need to Know
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Cumberland County, PA, is on alert after the Vector Control Office confirmed the presence of West Nile Virus (WNV) in two mosquito samples. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) identified the infected mosquitoes on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, prompting increased surveillance and targeted mosquito control measures.
Confirmed Cases and Locations
The DEP discovered the first WNV-positive mosquito in South Middleton Township, near Carlisle Airport, on tuesday, July 1. the second was found the following day in Shiremanstown Borough, specifically at Shiremanstown Memorial Park.
Did You Know? โฆ
West Nile Virus is not spread from person to person. It is indeed transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito, which contracts the virus by feeding on infected birds.
Who is most at Risk?
According to Dr. John D. Goldman, an infectious disease specialist at UPMC, young children (5 and under) and older adults (65 and over) face the highest risk of severe illness from WNV. While most healthy individuals experience mild or no symptoms, these age groups are more susceptible to complications.
Pro Tip: โฆ
The CDC recommends using EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE), para-menthane-diol (PMD), or 2-undecanone for effective mosquito bite prevention (CDC).
Preventative Measures
cumberland County officials urge residents to take the following precautions to minimize the risk of mosquito bites and WNV transmission:
- Apply mosquito repellents containing DEET.
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, especially during peak mosquito activity.
- Take extra precautions during dusk and dawn, when female mosquitoes are most active.
- Ensure window and door screens are secure and in good repair.
- Eliminate standing water around your property, as it provides breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
Declining Prevalence Expected
Dr. Goldman anticipates a continued decline in WNV cases due to increasing immunity within the population. many individuals have