Mosquito Samples Show Possible West Nile Activity in Several Neighborhoods

Virginia Beach Public Works announced an increase in the number of mosquitoes testing positive for West Nile Virus (WNV) detected in the last three weeks.  

The positive mosquitoes have been collected from the following neighborhoods: Aragona, Kempsville area, College Park, Brigadoon Forest, Thalia area, Plaza, Pembroke, Bay Colony, Green Run and Wesleyan Pines.

Mosquito Control has increased their treatment activities in the affected areas. Daytime crews are focusing on treating standing water in the affected areas. The nighttime crews are treating these areas as weather permits.  

Residents are advised to take precautions, including: 

• Pour out any containers collecting water on your property weekly. Stagnant, standing water offers a prime breeding site for mosquitoes.  
• Wear long sleeves and long pants, loose-fitting, light-color clothing. 
• Minimize outdoor activity around dusk and dawn when the mosquitoes that transmit WNV are most active. 
• Consider using insect repellant, being sure to follow all label instructions. 

West Nile Virus (WNV) is a viral disease that is spread to birds, humans and other mammals through the bite of infected mosquitoes. Most people infected with WNV have no symptoms, however some people have mild flu-like symptoms and a small portion of those with symptoms can develop more serious neurological disorders. To date, no human cases have been reported in Virginia Beach.  

People over the age of 50, those with known chronic medical conditions or those with a weakened immune system are at a higher risk for serious illness from WNV. 

For more information, please visit:

• vdh.virginia.gov/mosquitoes 
• VirginiaBeach.gov/Mosquito