Red Willow County Health Department sets mosquito traps to check for West Nile

Nancy Miller, LPN

Red Willow County Health Department

McCOOK, Nebraska --Summer is here and the Red Willow County Health Department nurses are starting to think about getting the mosquito traps set out. We will soon be starting to trap mosquitoes and will be accepting dead birds to send in to have them tested for the West Nile Virus.

We set out mosquito traps twice a month all around the city of McCook. We send the trapped mosquitoes in to Lincoln to have them tested for the virus, and any dead birds that people bring in to us. We have been doing this for several years to help find where the majority of West Nile virus is in the United States. We have had several positive shipments of mosquitoes and birds in the pat so we know this is a very important job.

We also know how important it is for people to use protective insect repellants when outside in the summer. The most important time of day is in the later afternoon and evening, or anytime you see or know the mosquitoes are present. If camping and hiking is something you enjoy, always be prepared for mosquitoes to be more prevalent on those excursions.

The type of repellant to use is the type with the chemical Deet. Apply on any bare skin, arms legs and even your face, but don't get it in your eyes. Always read the label when applying it to younger children.

Summer is the time to be outside and doing things with your family but also the time to be extra careful to stay healthy and keep mosquitoes away! If you live in Red Willow County, call 345-1790 to report a dead bird. More information on West Nile Virus can be found at www.redwillowhealth.com.