• Rare mosquito-transmitted virus confirmed in Pennsylvania


    HARRISBURG, Pa. - The rare mosquito-transmitted Eastern equine ncephalitis has been confirmed in the state of Pennsylvania.

    State health officials said EEE was found in Erie, Carbon and Monroe counties.

    The virus is carried by birds, and if a mosquito bites an infected bird, the bugs can then transmit the virus to humans, horses and other birds. Health officials said EEE is deadly and is considered one of the most dangerous mosquito-borne diseases in the country. 

    >>>>RELATED: Man dies after contracting EEE, officials in Massachusetts say

    Health officials urge people to use DEET-containing insect repellent and wear long sleeves and long pants when they are outdoors. At home, they said, people should make sure screens on windows and doors are in place and are in good condition.

    Here are some other things homeowners can do to get rid of mosquitoes:

    •    Have roof gutters cleaned annually, particularly if leaves from nearby trees have a tendency to clog the drains.
    •    Do not let water stagnate in bird baths.
    •    Aerate ornamental pools or stock them with fish.
    •    Clean and chlorinate swimming pools and remove standing water from pool covers.
    •    Treat standing water that cannot be eliminated with Bti products, which are sold at outdoor supply, home improvement, and other stores. Bti is a natural product that kills mosquito larvae, but is safe for people, pets, aquatic life and plants.

    CLICK HERE for more information from the CDC



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