Health Officials Spraying For West Nile In Laurel
LAUREL, Md. (WJZ) -- Concerns are mounting over the West Nile virus in Maryland. One Baltimore County man who died had a confirmed case, and a Laurel woman who died had a suspected case.
Tracey Leong explains what health workers are doing to prevent it.
With this latest suspected case in Laurel, the Maryland Department of Agriculture is taking action, spraying for mosquitoes throughout the area.
Laurel is taking a proactive approach in wiping out mosquitoes. Throughout the summer, the Maryland Department of Agriculture has been spraying sections of the city to get rid of the pests.
"I think it's good. At least they are helping out," said Richard Morel.
According to Dorothy Mount's family, the 94-year-old Laurel resident died from the West Nile virus earlier this month. City officials say her neighborhood was sprayed for mosquitoes twice in August.
This potential case is troubling to people who live in the area.
"It's kind of scary because I think you hear about those cases and you just take precautions for a little bit, and then you kind of let your guard down. It's definitely a concern," said Sheila Dedeaux.
Looking around, it's easy for neighbors to recognize the potential breeding grounds for mosquitoes, but some are concerned with the chemicals being sprayed near their homes.
"I definitely would like to know a lot more about the chemicals they're using. There are lots of families that have gardens in their yards, and things like that," said Dedeaux. "And the pets are out here."
The MDA says the insecticide they use is not harmful to people, pets or streams.
Officials do say the best way to avoid West Nile virus is to take action in your own home.
"Pour everything out. Or tires, which I don't have, but, buckets, I tend to flip over," said Richard Morel.
And avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellent and by wearing protective gear.
"Took precautions. I've got Girl Scouts. We make sure they have their wrist bands on and they're covered when they go out in the woods," said Dedeaux.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 80 percent of the people who are infected with West Nile virus, do not show any symptoms.
A Mosquito Patrol program in Laurel ends this week. That means the spraying there will end this week, as well.
