The Licking County Health Department identified the first pool of mosquitoes infected with West Nile Virus of 2025 in Newark.
The mosquitoes were found in a trap set in near Jefferson Road and Moull Street. The area was sprayed as a part of the health department’s mosquito control program on June 26.
“While it’s not unexpected to find West Nile Virus in the county, it’s still important for residents to take simple precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones,” Licking County Health Commissioner Chad Brown said in a statement.
Brown said residents should eliminate standing water on their properties to reduce mosquito breeding sites, apply EPA-approved insect repellent, wear pants and sleeves when appropriate and avoid outdoor activities after dark, when mosquitoes are most active.
The Licking County Health Department will next spray for mosquitoes July 1. Spraying will take place in Pataskala and in Granville Township, specifically McPeek Lodge, Wildwood Park, Racoon Valley, Spring Valley Park and the Beechwood/Thornwood area.
An average of 47 human cases of West Nile Virus are reported each year in Ohio, according to the Ohio Department of Health.
This article originally appeared on Newark Advocate: Licking County health officials find first 2025 pool of West Nile virus mosquitos in Newark
Reporting by Sheridan Hendrix, Newark Advocate / Newark Advocate
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
