Beaufort County increases trapping, truck treatments after West Nile virus found in local mosquito samples

BEAUFORT COUNTY, S.C. (WTOC) - Beaufort County Mosquito Control said they are continuing to find West Nile virus-positive mosquito samples in Beaufort County, with detections spanning both north and south of Broad locations.

In response, the agency said it is increasing mosquito trapping in the identified areas and will schedule additional truck treatment missions to reduce adult mosquito populations. Beaufort County Mosquito Control also uses larvicide applications, surveillance, education and testing as part of its prevention efforts.

SEE: West Nile virus detected in Beaufort County; health officials offer prevention tips

About the surveillance program

West Nile virus is naturally found in the area, though detection levels vary from year to year, according to the agency. Beaufort County Mosquito Control said they deploy up to 80 mosquito surveillance traps each week throughout Beaufort County to monitor for mosquito-borne diseases including West Nile virus, eastern equine encephalitis virus, and St. Louis encephalitis virus.

How to protect yourself

The agency is urging the public to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites:

• Drain standing water that may produce mosquitoes.
• Dawn and dusk are times to avoid being outdoors.
• Dress to deter mosquitoes by wearing long sleeves and pants when outside.
• Defend yourself by using an EPA-approved insect repellent.
• Doors and windows screens should be in good working condition.

For more information or to report mosquitoes or standing water, visit Beaufort County Mosquito Control’s website or call 843-255-5800. Sign up for aerial spray notifications on the agency’s website here.