VB mosquitoes test positive for EEE

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) - Health officials are warning residents of Virginia Beach the number of mosquitos with Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) is on the rise.

Dreda Symonds, a mosquito control biologist with the City of Virginia Beach says weather conditions in Hampton Roads have made a perfect breeding ground for mosquitos.

"[There's] a peak in population, followed by a warm winter, followed by a warm spring," Symonds said. "Circumstances have been all for this mosquito."

EEE can range from no symptoms to flu-like symptoms and in most severe cases, coma or death.
The warnings come after a chicken tested positive for EEE in the Pungo section of Virginia Beach.

"She's tested positive so we know the disease is becoming more active in this area," Symonds said. "The warmer it is, the faster the virus grows and it's just been really hot."

According to the Virginia Beach Department of Public Health, the areas most impacted are Blackwater, the West Neck Creek River basin and Indian River Road near Elbow Road.

The following precautions should be taken to avoid exposure:

• Try to minimize outdoor activity around dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active
• Wear long, loose, light colored clothing
• Use an appropriate insect repellant and follow label instructions.
• Get rid of any standing water on your property.  This offers a prime breeding area for mosquitoes