West Nile In Pennsylvania: Should You Be Concerned?

Another human case of West Nile virus was reported in Bucks County on Friday, which brings the total number of human cases up to 20 for the season. Montgomery County alone has reported four human cases, and Bucks County has had three.

In Philadelphia, three human cases have also been reported. One has been reported in Chester County, as well as one in Delaware County.

Should residents of the Philadelphia suburbs be concerned?

“I’d say no, but people should be taking precautions to limit their exposure to mosquito bites. This does not mean they should be changing their lifestyle, however,” said Bucks County West Nile Virus Program Coordinator Phil Smith.

According to Smith, mosquitos that transmit West Nile virus are most active during dusk and in the early morning hours.

“If people can limit their time outdoors during these times obviously it would reduce the risk. However, with children’s sports programs and a host of other outdoor activities this is not always possible. So if you must be outside during these times, using an effective insect repellent containing DEET, like Deep Woods OFF, can make a big difference,” Smith said.

He noted the change in daylight hours and cooler nighttime temperatures affects mosquito behavior. “They are looking less for a blood meal and more towards nectar in order to prepare to over-winter,” he said.

Smith said officials have noticed a drop off in the number of mosquitoes being caught in traps within the past week. “This means that shortly, within the next week or so, the risk of any further disease transmission should be minimal,” he said.

Bucks County isn’ the only area with human West Nile cases this year. Other nearby counties have reported human cases this season, including Montgomery and Chester counties.