Allentown to spray for mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus

Testing in the last two weeks “indicated the presence of West Nile virus-positive mosquito samples” in Allentown, according a news release from the city.

The release said a truck-mounted spray operation will be carried out between 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. Tuesday in Highland Cemetery, Sumner Avenue and the neighborhoods surrounding Union and West End Cemetery. In case of rain the spraying will be rescheduled for Wednesday.

The West Nile virus is typically transmitted by infected mosquitoes. The insects bite and infect wild birds, which serve as the main carriers of the virus. However, they can also spread the virus to humans, horses and other mammals.The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection collaborates with representatives from all 67 counties to establish a network for mosquito surveillance and control. The management of this program is overseen by the Lehigh Conservation District.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention West Nile virus is the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the continental United States. Cases occur during mosquito season, which starts in the summer and continues through fall. There are no vaccines to prevent or medications to treat the virus in people. Most people infected with West Nile virus do not feel sick. About 1 in 5 people who are infected develop a fever and other symptoms. About 1 out of 150 infected people develop a serious, sometimes fatal, illness, according to the CDC.

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