Mayor Takes On Mosquitoes After Positive West Nile Test

WARREN (WWJ/AP) - Mayor Jim Fouts is declaring war on mosquitoes after the West Nile virus was detected in Warren.

Fouts is directing city crews to drop insecticide briquettes into Warren's 17,500 street basins. City inspectors, police and firefighters also will look for standing water where mosquitoes breed.

Macomb County health officials on Wednesday announced a positive test in Warren mosquitoes. Separately, donated blood tested positive for West Nile in Oakland County.

Mosquitoes pick up the virus from infected birds and then pass it to people. The elderly and people with weak immune systems can be at greatest risk for death.

Symptoms can include body aches, joint pain and diarrhea.

Residents are reminded to take the following measures to prevent mosquito bites:

• Use an insect repellent that contains DEET or picaridin on clothing and exposed skin. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also recommends the use of oil of lemon eucalyptus as a more natural repellent. Manufacturer's directions should be closely followed when using these products.

• Many mosquitoes are most active from dusk to dawn. Residents should limit outdoor activities, wear pants and long sleeves and use repellent during these hours.

• Areas of standing water, such as buckets, flowerpots, barrels and kiddie pools, should be kept empty when not being used to prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs. Change the water regularly in pet dishes and bird baths, and keep gutters free of standing water.

• Window and door screens should be in good repair to prevent mosquitoes from entering buildings.

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