Their mosquito team is conducting extra larval and adult mosquito surveillance to help diminish the potential spread of West Nile.  Residents near the collection site may begin to see door hangers on their homes outlining ways to reduce mosquito habitat and to prevent breeding habitat on their properties.

The risk of West Nile transmission is still fairly low, but they are encouraging residents to take the following precautions:

·       Stay indoors during peak mosquito hours

o   Dusk to Dawn

·       Wear long sleeves, pants, and closed-toed shoes if possible

o   Exposed skin may be at risk for biting mosquitoes

·       Wear bug spray

o   Specifically bug spray containing at least 30% DEET

·       Remove all standing water from your property

o   Birdbaths, wheelbarrows, and children’s toys can hold water which can breed mosquitoes.

o   ANY water standing for more than 4 days can begin to breed mosquitoes

Residents are also encouraged to report dead birds, specifically crows, ravens, blue jays, and birds of prey. Birds that show no signs of trauma may have died from the accumulation of West Nile in their bodies. If one of these bird species is found, and the bird is still fairly fresh, please contact the Berks County Conservation Office at 610-372-4657, extension 218.