July 27, 2010
Dear Town of Gilbert Citizens, Business Owners, School Administrators and Faith Based Organizations,
Maricopa County Environmental Services Department maintains a year round mosquito surveillance program for West Nile Virus (WNV). Their surveillance activities indicate that WNV activity in Gilbert has been unusually active. The numbers appear to reflect more activity than previous years and could be a result of winter rains and other factors. Maricopa County Public Health has 17 confirmed cases and 2 deaths from WNV in Maricopa County, most from the East Valley.
I want to stress the importance of protecting our residents. Prevention is paramount. Please distribute this information to your family, friends and neighbors.
- Avoid outside activities between dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.
- Wear lightweight clothing that covers your arms and legs and use insect repellent if you must be outdoors when mosquitoes are active. Always follow directions on the label.
- Make sure doors and windows have tight fitting screens and remain closed.
- Eliminate mosquito-breeding sites around your home or business by removing standing water in potted plants, tires, bird baths and other containers where water may collect.
- Ensure that swimming pools and decorative water features are properly maintained.
- Change water in flowerpots, bird baths and pet watering bowls located outdoors twice per week.
West Nile Virus can cause severe illness in people. Twenty percent of those infected will develop flu-like symptoms including; fever, headache, body aches, and muscle weakness. Some people, especially the elderly may experience more severe symptoms including high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, and/or encephalitis or inflammation of the brain.
If you become aware of a green pool or other mosquito breeding site please report the site to 480-503-6439 or to Maricopa County at 602-506-6616. If Maricopa County has treated the pool you will find a public notice on the front door or window.
Sincerely,
Sheri Gibbons, CEM
Emergency Management Coordinator
Gilbert Fire Department
480-503-6333
