Spraying of the Cicero Swamp Scheduled for Wednesday, August 12, 2020

Due to the recent findings of EEE virus in mosquitoes in the Cicero Swamp area, aerial spraying of the Cicero Swamp and the immediate surrounding areas will take place on Wednesday, August 12, 2020 after 6:00 pm, weather permitting. If weather or wind conditions are unfavorable on Wednesday, the spraying will be conducted on the next appropriate day. The actual date will be announced to the public through local news, social media, and other communication channels, and residents in the spray areas will also be notified by phone through the 911 emergency notification system.

The designated spray areas are generally bounded on the north by Route 31, on the west by Northern Boulevard, on the south by Taft Road, and on the east by the county line (Chittenango Creek). Roads included in this area are: all or parts of Route 298, Bull Street, Eastwood Road, Island Road, Cicero Center Road, Fergerson Road, Ferstler Road, and Oxbow Road. To view a map of the spraying area, visit: www.ongov.net/health/documents/SprayMapCicero.pdf

The pesticide that will be used for aerial spraying is Kontrol 30-30. This pesticide is registered with the Environmental Protection Agency and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation for this use. A copy of the pesticide label can be found on the Onondaga County Health Department website at www.ongov.net/health/documents/MasterLineKontrol30-30label.pdf. A written copy of the label can be provided by calling 315.435.1649.

If you live in the spray area, from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm on the day of the scheduled spraying, it is recommended that you:

  • Stay indoors and keep your windows closed for one hour after the area has been sprayed.
  • Keep your pets indoors if possible.
  • Set your window air conditioners to circulate indoor air. It is safe to use your central air conditioning.
  • Keep outdoor gardens covered and rinse vegetables before eating.
  • Be sure children’s toys, outdoor furniture, and clothes on outdoor clotheslines are brought inside. If toys or clothes are left outdoors, wash each thoroughly with soap and water before using and launder clothes before wearing them.
  • Close your car windows and car vents if you are driving during the spraying.

Onondaga County residents who would like to receive community alerts by wireless phones, text messages, and/or TTY may register for the Hyper-Reach Emergency Notification System through the Department of Emergency Communications—911 Center at www.ongov.net/911/notification.html. Landlines are already included in the 911 emergency notification system.

For more information about spraying and protecting yourself from mosquitoes, visit www.ongov.net/health/env/mosquitoes.html or call the Onondaga County Health Department at 315.435.1649.

Jamesville Beach Closed for Swimming Due to Visual Presence of Algal Bloom

The Onondaga County Health Department announced today that Jamesville Beach located in the Town of LaFayette is closed for swimming due to the visual presence of an algal bloom. Water sampling will be conducted to confirm there are no toxins before the beach is reopened.

Please note that this does not affect the park’s other amenities during normal hours of operation, however, residents must continue to act responsibly to prevent the spread of COVID-19 by avoiding crowds, wearing a mask, and washing hands frequently.

Algal blooms can turn the water green and can form thick surface scums on the water. Certain types of algae can release toxins that may cause skin or eye irritation, or diarrhea and vomiting if ingested. People and animals should keep out of the water where algal blooms are present in any body of water.

The Health Department recommends taking the following precautions:

  • Don’t swim, wade, boat, or fish near blooms or scums and don’t eat fish caught from waters with blooms
  • Don’t drink the water
  • Keep children and animals away from any blooms or scums
  • Rinse with clean water if exposed

To learn more about blue-green algae visit:

For future updates on the closure status for Jamesville Beach and Oneida Shores Beach, please visit www.onondagacountyparks.com/about/water-quality-testing/ or call the Division of Environmental Health at 315.435.6600.

Additional Findings of Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus in Mosquito Pools, Spraying of Cicero Swamp Planned

Onondaga County Health Commissioner, Dr. Indu Gupta, was notified today of four additional findings of Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus (EEEV) in mosquito pools collected from a trap located on Route 298 in the Cicero Swamp area in the town of Cicero. This is the same location as the previous finding. Dr. Gupta explains that “EEE is a rare but serious disease that is caused by a virus ​transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito, therefore it is extremely important that residents use personal protection measures to reduce their risk of mosquito bites”

The Onondaga County Health Department is making plans to conduct aerial spraying of the Cicero Swamp and immediate surrounding areas pending approval from the New York State Department of Health. Gupta explains, “This proactive measure is an attempt to interrupt the mosquito ​breeding cycles. Reducing the number of mosquitoes (although it is temporary) can reduce the number of mosquitoes available to transmit the virus to humans.” The timing of the spraying will be determined by weather conditions and other factors, and the actual date will be announced to the public through local news, social media, and other communication channels. Residents in the spray areas will also be notified by phone through the 911 emergency notification system–existing landlines with active service are already registered to receive emergency notifications through the system. Cellular and some VoIP phones are not in the system database. If you would like to be contacted on your cellular or VoIP line to receive emergency notifications in your area, you must self-register on the system at ongov.net/911/notification.html

Personal Protection Measures
The presence of EEEV in our county is a reminder that no matter where you live, it is important to be consistent in protecting yourself and your family from mosquito bites. Personal protection is recommended during outdoor activities by wearing shoes, socks, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt when outside for a long period of time. The use of insect repellents containing DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, and other products that have been approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is also recommended. Use this EPA search tool to help you choose the repellent product that is right for you, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions on proper use for safety and effectiveness. Do not put the repellent directly onto children; put it on your hands and apply it to your child.  Do not put insect repellent on your face. Wash skin and clothing after returning indoors
It is also important to reduce the number of mosquitoes around your home by removing mosquito breeding grounds:
• Throw away outdoor containers, ceramic pots or containers that hold water
• Remove all tires from your property
• Drill holes in the bottoms of recycling containers that are kept outdoors
• Clean clogged rain gutters and make sure they continue to work properly
• Turn over wheelbarrows and wading pools when not in use
• Change water in birdbaths at least every four days
• Clear vegetation and debris from the edges of ponds
• Clean chlorinated swimming pools, outdoor saunas, and hot tubs
• Drain water from pool covers

• Use landscaping to eliminate low spots where standing water accumulates

The Onondaga County Health Department remains in close contact with the New York State Departments of Health and Environmental Conservation. For the weekly mosquito pool test results and for more information about spraying and protecting yourself from mosquitoes, visit www.ongov.net/health/env/mosquitoes.html or contact the Onondaga County Health Department’s Division of Environmental Health at 315.435.1649.

Annual Elimination of Water Chestnuts in the Seneca River

The Onondaga County Health Department will begin to reduce the number of water chestnuts in the Seneca River in the Baldwinsville and Three Rivers areas beginning Monday, August 10, 2020. Water chestnuts are plants that are rooted in the river bottom. Water chestnuts spread quickly and their seeds can remain dormant for several years making elimination of water chestnuts a multi-year effort. Due to its thick formation, water chestnuts hinder navigation, crowd native plants, and reduce fish habitat.

The only herbicide that will be used for this purpose is Clearcast (active ingredient: imazamox). Clearcast is considered safe for the control of vegetation in and natural bodies of water and non‐cropland sites. However, Clearcast is harmful if absorbed through the skin or inhaled and can cause moderate eye irritation. As a precautionary measure, we are asking the public to avoid the areas while they are being treated. Signs will be posted to identify the treated areas. Detailed descriptions and maps of the treatment areas are available at: https://www.ongov.net/health/env/waterchestnuts.html.

For more information about the Clearcast pesticide that will be used, please visit: https://www.sepro.com/documents/clearcast_Label.pdf

For more information about water chestnuts, please visit the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation fact sheet: https://on.ny.gov/32nBVZn

Potential COVID-19 Exposure at Local Business

The Onondaga County Health Department has confirmed that a server at Angry Garlic restaurant, 29 Oswego Street in Baldwinsville, has tested positive for COVID-19. The server worked shifts on Saturday, July 25 from 3:30 to 11:30 pm and Sunday, July 26 from 4:00 to 9:00 pm. The server was wearing a mask.

Health Department investigators are in the process of identifying all close contacts of the individual and notifying them. Members of the public who visited Angry Garlic during the time periods mentioned may have been exposed and should monitor themselves for symptoms of COVID-19 for 14 days from that date. If symptoms do develop, stay home, and call your doctor for further guidance. If you are elderly, have underlying medical conditions, or are immunocompromised, call your doctor early even if your illness is mild. In an emergency call 911. Testing is also widely available, and anyone can get tested for COVID-19 by visiting one of the clinics listed at covid19.ongov.net/.

Onondaga County is now in Phase Four of reopening, and it is crucial that residents be diligent and continue to do their part to prevent further spread of COVID-19. Protect yourself and others by covering your face in public when social distancing (staying 6 feet apart) is not possible, especially on public transport, in stores, on crowded sidewalks, or when working and have direct contact with members of the public. Continue to wash your hands often, cover coughs and sneezes, and disinfect surfaces frequently.

With more businesses reopening, employers must take steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19 within the workplace. All employers should implement a plan that identifies and controls all areas and job tasks with potential exposures to COVID-19, conducting daily symptom and temperature screening of employees before they enter the facility, requiring face masks and frequent hand washing, ensuring social distancing, telling employees to stay home when sick, and educating their staff about steps they can take to protect themselves at work and at home.

Information and guidance related to COVID-19 changes daily. We are continually updating our website, covid19.ongov.net to provide easy access to accurate and timely local information. Also regularly visit the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) websites for statewide and national news about COVID-19.

Mosquitoes Found Positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus

Onondaga County Health Commissioner, Dr. Indu Gupta, was notified by the New York State Department of Health Wadsworth Laboratory today that mosquitoes from a trap located on Route 298 in the Cicero Swamp area in the town of Cicero have tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus (EEEV). Dr. Gupta explains that “EEEV is one of a number of viruses that can be spread by the bite of an infected mosquito, so it is extremely important that people use personal protection measures to reduce their risk of being bitten by mosquitoes.”

Eastern Equine Encephalitis
EEE is a rare but serious disease that causes encephalitis or inflammation of the brain. People over the age of 50 and younger than the age of 15 are at greatest risk for developing severe disease when infected with EEEV.

Personal Protection Measures
Even though the mosquito counts in our county remain relatively low compared to recent years due to this year’s dry weather conditions, this first positive finding of EEEV in mosquitoes serves as a reminder for all residents that this virus is present and to be consistent in protecting yourself and your family from mosquito bites no matter where you live. Personal protection is recommended during outdoor activities by wearing shoes, socks, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt when outside for a long period of time. The use of insect repellents containing DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, and other products that have been approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is also recommended. Use this EPA search tool to help you choose the repellent product that is right for you, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions on proper use for safety and effectiveness. Do not put the repellent directly onto children; put it on your hands and apply it to your child.  Do not put insect repellent on your face. Wash skin and clothing after returning indoors.It is also important to reduce the number of mosquitoes around your home by removing mosquito breeding grounds:
• Throw away outdoor containers, ceramic pots or containers that hold water
• Remove all tires from your property
• Drill holes in the bottoms of recycling containers that are kept outdoors
• Clean clogged rain gutters and make sure they continue to work properly
• Turn over wheelbarrows and wading pools when not in use
• Change water in birdbaths at least every four days
• Clear vegetation and debris from the edges of ponds
• Clean chlorinated swimming pools, outdoor saunas, and hot tubs
• Drain water from pool covers
• Use landscaping to eliminate low spots where standing water accumulates

The Onondaga County Health Department remains in close contact with the New York State Departments of Health and Environmental Conservation. For the weekly mosquito pool test results and for more information about personal protection measures against mosquitoes, visit www.ongov.net/health/env/mosquitoes.html  or contact the Onondaga County Health Department’s Division of Environmental Health at 315. 435.1649.

Oneida Shores Beach Closed for Swimming

The Onondaga County Health Department announced today that Oneida Shores Beach, located in the town of Cicero, will be closed for swimming due to high levels of bacteria (E.coli) in the water. Swimming will not be allowed until bacteria levels return to acceptable levels. The Health Department will be monitoring the lake water daily until bacteria levels reach acceptable standards.

Most varieties of E. coli are harmless or cause brief diarrhea. While only some types of bacteria will cause gastrointestinal illness, the presence of E. coli bacteria is an indicator of increased general bacterial action in the water. Anyone concerned about gastrointestinal symptoms should contact their health care provider.

Please note that this does not affect the park’s other amenities during normal hours of operation, however, residents must continue to act responsibly to prevent the spread of COVID-19 by avoiding crowds, wearing a mask, and washing hands frequently.

For future updates on bacterial testing and closure status for Oneida Shores Beach, please visit: www.onondagacountyparks.com/about/water-quality-testing/ or call the Division of Environmental Health at 315.435.6600.

Potential COVID-19 Exposure at Local Business

The Onondaga County Health Department has confirmed that two customers of Tommy’s Park, 901 Butternut Street, Syracuse have tested positive for COVID-19. The two individuals were in the establishment on Friday, July 10 from 11:00 pm to close (approximately 12:00 midnight) and were not wearing masks. The server was wearing a mask and the establishment has been limiting capacity to under 50% and following CDC cleaning guidelines.

Health Department investigators are in the process of identifying all close contacts of the individuals and notifying them. Members of the public who visited Tommy’s Park from 11:00 pm to 12:00 midnight on Friday, July 10 may have been exposed and should monitor themselves for symptoms of COVID-19 for 14 days from that date.  If symptoms do develop, stay home and call your doctor for further guidance. If you are elderly, have underlying medical conditions, or are immunocompromised, call your doctor early even if your illness is mild. In an emergency call 911. Testing is also widely available, and anyone can get tested for COVID-19 by visiting one of the clinics listed at covid19.ongov.net/.

Onondaga County is now in Phase Four of reopening, and it is crucial that residents be diligent and continue to do their part to prevent further spread of COVID-19. Protect yourself and others by covering your face in public when social distancing (staying 6 feet apart) is not possible, especially on public transport, in stores, on crowded sidewalks, or when working and have direct contact with members of the public. Continue to wash your hands often, cover coughs and sneezes, and disinfect surfaces frequently.

With more businesses reopening, employers must take steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19 within the workplace. All employers should implement a plan that identifies and controls all areas and job tasks with potential exposures to COVID-19, conducting daily symptom and temperature screening of employees before they enter the facility, requiring face masks and frequent hand washing, ensuring social distancing, telling employees to stay home when sick, and educating their staff about steps they can take to protect themselves at work and at home.

Information and guidance related to COVID-19 changes daily. We are continually updating our website, covid19.ongov.net to provide easy access to accurate and timely local information. Also regularly visit the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) websites for statewide and national news about COVID-19.

Heat Advisory for Onondaga County

Onondaga County Health Commissioner, Dr. Indu Gupta, is advising that individuals take precautions against the extreme heat and humidity that is expected in Onondaga County today and into this week. A heat advisory has been issued beginning today at 1:00 pm, and heat index values later in the week have the potential to be in the mid-90s Thursday and Friday afternoons.

A high heat index, besides making people uncomfortable, also significantly worsens the air quality which can impact people with lung diseases like asthma.  Air pollution concentrations may become unhealthy for sensitive groups, like children and seniors, as well as those suffering from heart or lung diseases. These effects can be minimized by avoiding strenuous activity or outdoor exercise.

Dr. Gupta explains that “All residents should take steps to stay cool during hot weather. For those who are at an increased risk for heat-related illness such as the elderly, small children, overweight individuals, and those with chronic health problems or who take certain medications, extreme heat conditions can be dangerous or even deadly. During times like these, we need to look out for each other—check in on your family, friends, and neighbors often.”

To stay healthy during hot weather it is important to follow these safety tips:

  • Drink water regularly, even if you’re not feeling thirsty. Limit intake of alcoholic beverages.
  • Stay in an air-conditioned indoor location if possible.
  • Keep curtains and window shades closed.
  • Take cool showers or baths to cool down.
  • Schedule outdoor activities carefully and pace yourself.
  • Dress in loose-fitting clothing that covers as much skin as possible.
  • Protect face and head from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat.
  • Avoid too much sun and use a sunscreen lotion with a high SPF rating.
  • Check on a friend or neighbor and have someone do the same for you.
  • NEVER leave children, disabled individuals or pets in cars

The Health Department reminds individuals to take steps to prevent heat-related illness. For more information on how to “Avoid, Spot and Treat Heat Stroke and Heat Exhaustion”, visit https://www.cdc.gov/phpr/infographics/ast-heat.htm. If you or someone you know is experiencing heat-related symptoms, contact your health care provider or 911 immediately.

For more information about heat-related illness and prevention tips call the Onondaga County Health Department at 315.435.3280 or visit ongov.net/health/heat.html or emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/faq.asp.

COVID-19 Potential Exposure at Mass Gathering

The Onondaga County Health Department has confirmed that two individuals who attended the “Rye Day” party held on June 20, 2020 have tested positive for COVID-19. Hundreds of people gathered for the party that took place from 4:00 to 9:00 pm on Saturday, June 20 in the Near Westside neighborhood at Performance Park near Wyoming and Marcellus Streets.

Health Department investigators are in the process of identifying all close contacts of the individuals and notifying them. Those who attended the party may have been exposed and should monitor themselves for symptoms of COVID-19 until Saturday, July 4.  If symptoms do develop, stay home and call your doctor for further guidance. If you are elderly, have underlying medical conditions, or are immunocompromised, call your doctor early even if your illness is mild. In an emergency call 911.

Central New York was in the middle of Phase Three of reopening the weekend of the “Rye Day” party, when gatherings of only up to 25 people were allowed.

Onondaga County Commissioner of Health Dr. Indu Gupta urges our community to take steps to prevent another surge that would undo the efforts made so far in the fight against COVID-19. “Onondaga County residents as a whole have done an incredible job helping to slow the spread of COVID-19 in our community. Our individual actions have flattened the curve in Central New York, but the virus is still with us, and now is not the time to be complacent. We need to remain diligent by continuing to wash our hands, cover coughs and sneezes, stay home when sick, social distance, and wear a face covering in public. This responsibility doesn’t fall on a few–it is the job of everyone in order to recover from this as a community.”

Our region is now in Phase Four, which allows gatherings of up to 50 people, however, organizers should continue to assess whether to postpone, cancel, or significantly reduce the number of attendees for gatherings. The more people an individual interacts with at a gathering and the longer that interaction lasts, the higher the potential risk of spreading COVID-19. Those who attend gatherings must continue to follow social distancing, face covering, and handwashing guidelines to limit the risk of spreading the virus that has caused well over 2,700 cases and close to 200 deaths in Onondaga County. Without proper precautions, mass gatherings can be a recipe for disaster, especially for the more than 14% of cases who require hospitalizations and 5% who die of the illness.

Dr. Gupta strongly advises that “even though our region is in Phase Four of reopening, it is still important to use your best judgment—now may not be the best time to host a party or other gathering. If you do decide to visit with friends or family members you’ve been separated from, keep gatherings as small as possible and try to stay away from those who may be at high risk for severe COVID-19 disease, such as the elderly and those who are immunocompromised or have underlying medical conditions such as obesity, high blood pressure, or diabetes.”

Information and guidance related to COVID-19 changes daily. We are continually updating our website, covid19.ongov.net to provide easy access to accurate and timely local information. Also regularly visit the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) websites for statewide and national news about COVID-19.