Help Stop Mosquito Breeding Grounds in Wet Weather

By Joe Hathaway on Monday, August 21st, 2023 in Northeastern Oregon News Northeastern Oregon Top Stories

BAKER COUNTY — With wet weather in the forecast, the Baker Valley Vector Control District is asking people to keep an eye out for standing water on their property that could turn into a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

Eastern Oregon and especially Baker County is seeing a rise in the number of mosquitoes testing positive for West Nile virus. At least 16 mosquitoes from pools around the county have tested positive for the disease. A person in Huntington became the first human to test positive for the virus earlier this month.

“Look in your yard and turn over anything that could hold water,” said Matt Hutchinson, District Manager of Baker Valley Vector Control District. “If you see new pools of water and they stay around, report it and we’ll come take a look and try and get those mosquitoes before they hatch.”

Baker County residents are advised to take precautions against mosquitos. West Nile virus is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Consult your health care provider if you have flu-like symptoms. Health care providers can contact the Baker County Health Department for information on West Nile virus testing.

Wild animals and horses can become infected with West Nile virus, please consult with the Department of Fish and Wildlife or your veterinarian for testing at Oregon State University .

Baker Valley Vector Control District offers these tips for protecting yourself against mosquitoes:

Eliminate sources of standing water that are a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
Protect yourself by using mosquito repellents containing DEET, oil of lemon eucalyptus or
Picardin and follow the directions on the container.
Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants in mosquito-infested areas.
Make sure screen doors and windows are in good repair and fit tightly.