Boil Water Order for Some Residents of the Town of DeWitt Water Department

The Onondaga County Health Department is issuing a Boil Water Order to some residents and businesses that are served by the Town of Dewitt Water Department. The affected area is outlined on this map. Test results from routine sampling that were received today confirmed the presence of coliform bacteria. The Town of Dewitt will continue to sample the water over the weekend and the public will be informed when the Boil Water Order is lifted.

AS A PRECAUTION DO NOT DRINK THE WATER WITHOUT BOILING IT FIRST. Bring all water to a boil, let it boil for one minute, and let it cool before using, or use bottled water certified for sale by the New York State Department of Health. Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes, and food preparation until further notice. Boiling kills most bacteria and other organisms in the water. The boil order will be in effect and sampling will continue in the affected areas until tests confirm there is no more coliform in the water supply.

Additional reminders for residents in this area include:

If you use bottled water, be sure it comes from a safe source. If you do not know the source, boil or treat the water before you use it. Use only bottled, boiled, or treated water until your water supply is tested and found to be safe.
Boiling water when practical is the preferred way to get rid of harmful bacterial and parasites. Bringing water to a boil for one minute will kill most organisms.
You can treat water with chlorine tablets, iodine tablets, or unscented household chlorine bleach (5.25% sodium hypochlorite). If you use chlorine tablets or iodine tablets, follow the directions that come with the tablets. If you use household chlorine bleach, add 1/8 teaspoons of bleach per gallon of water if the water is clear. If the water is cloudy, add ¼ of bleach per gallon. Mix the solution thoroughly and let it stand for about 30 minutes before using it.
While drinking water contaminated with coliform bacteria does not always cause illness, residents in the affected areas that experience gastrointestinal upset, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea should contact their healthcare provider.
It is safe to take a bath or shower, but be careful not to swallow any water. Use caution when bathing babies and young children. Consider giving them a sponge bath to reduce the chance of them swallowing water.

For more information about this Boil Water Order, call the Onondaga County Health Department, Division of Environmental Health at 315-435-6600. For more information visit: https://bit.ly/2lC2ZDa

Changes to 2019 Rabies Clinic Schedule

The Onondaga County Health Department is announcing changes to the two remaining clinics in the 2019 Rabies Clinic Schedule. The clinics scheduled on October 5 and December 7, 2019 have been rescheduled to the following dates and locations:

Thursday, October 24, 2019
5:00 pm to 7:00 pm
St. Lucy’s Church
432 Gifford St, Syracuse NY 13204

Thursday, December 12, 2019
5:00 pm to 7:00 pm
North Syracuse Community Center
700 S. Bay Rd, Syracuse NY 13212

The revised clinic schedule is available online at https://bit.ly/2HYqOjq.

FREE Mammograms Are Available

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among United States women, no matter your race or ethnicity. Many things affect a person’s chance of getting breast cancer, these are called risk factors. Some risk factors cannot be controlled and include being a woman, getting older, having dense breasts, having radiation to the chest area early in life, family history and genetics. However, the good news is that a healthy lifestyle can help to prevent cancer. It is important to see your health care provider for regular check-ups, eat healthy foods, get exercise, maintain a healthy weight, limit alcohol use and do not smoke.

Most women (about 8 out of 10) who get breast cancer do not have a family history of the disease. However, women who have close blood relatives like a mother or sister who have had breast cancer are at a higher risk themselves. About 5-10% of breast cancers are thought to be hereditary, meaning they result directly from gene defects passed on from a parent. The most common cause of hereditary breast cancer is inherited defective BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.

Breast cancer may not cause any symptoms in its early stages. If symptoms do appear, they may include the following:

a lump, hard knot, or thickening in the breast or underarm area
new pain in one spot that does not go away
nipple discharge that starts suddenly
pulling in of the nipple or other parts of the breast
dimpling or puckering of the breast skin
any change in the size or shape of the breast
swelling, warmth, redness, or darkening of the breast skin
itchy, scaly sore, or rash on the nipple.

Routine screenings are an important step to help find breast cancer early. With early detection breast cancer is usually easier to treat and has better outcomes. A mammogram is the best test to detect breast cancer early.

Free mammograms are available through the Onondaga County Cancer Services Program (CSP) for women between the ages of 40 and 64 who do not have health insurance or who experience other barriers to completing their screenings, along with any necessary follow-up. Services are available at many healthcare provider sites throughout the city of Syracuse and Onondaga County. Call 315-435-3653 or visit the CSP website at ongov.net/health/cancerscreening.html to register for your free mammogram.

Whether you have health insurance or not, having a mammogram may save your life. Remember, if you are a woman between the ages of 40 and 64 and do NOT have health insurance, call 315-435-3653 to see if you qualify for a free mammogram. Take care of yourself this October and schedule your mammogram today!

First Human Case of West Nile Virus in Onondaga County for 2019

Onondaga County Health Commissioner Dr. Indu Gupta announced today that the first case of human West Nile virus infection for 2019 was reported in an adult residing in the town of Salina. The patient is still hospitalized and in stable condition.

West Nile virus is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito and is considered to be endemic in Central New York. Dr. Gupta explained that, “Mosquitoes carrying the virus have been found in mosquito traps in the town of Salina and nearby areas this summer.”

While most people infected with West Nile virus (WNV) do not develop symptoms, 1 in 5 people who are infected develop a fever with symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea or rash. Severe illness can strike at any age, however, people over 60 years of age and people with certain medical conditions such as cancer, diabetes, or who have received organ transplants, are at higher risk. Symptoms of severe illness may include headache, high fever, neck stiffness, muscle weakness, stupor, disorientation, tremors, seizures, paralysis, and coma that could lead to death. There is no vaccine or specific treatment for WNV infection. Consult with your healthcare provider if you have any of these symptoms.

Dr. Gupta continued, “It takes only one infected mosquito to transmit infection to humans. Even though the numbers of mosquitoes have decreased, it is important to continue protecting yourself from mosquito bites to avoid WNV infection.” Personal protection is recommended during outdoor activities by wearing shoes, socks, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt. Applying a mosquito repellent containing DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol, or 2-undecanone is also recommended to prevent mosquito bites. Do not put the repellent on your face or directly onto children; put it on your hands and apply it to your child. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for application.

It is also important to get rid of mosquito breeding grounds to reduce the number of mosquitoes around your home:

Throw away outdoor containers, ceramic pots or containers that hold water
Remove all tires from your property
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 bird baths at least every four days
Clean chlorinated swimming pools, outdoor saunas, and hot tubs
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 http://www.ongov.net/health/env/mosquitoes.html or contact the Onondaga County Health Department, Division of Environmental Health at 315.435.1649.

Public Urged to Stop the Use of E-Cigarettes

Due to the recent increase in vaping-associated illness, the Onondaga County Health Commissioner has joined the Governor and the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) in encouraging residents to stop using e-cigarettes. Health Commissioner Dr. Indu Gupta states, “I am urging residents of Onondaga County to stop using all vape products until the investigation by the CDC and New York State Department of Health into the definitive cause of reported vape-associated illness is concluded”.

To date, 74 cases of vaping-associated illness have been identified in New York State, including 7 in Central New York as reported by the NYSDOH. Symptoms include cough, shortness of breath or chest pain, fever, fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, and weight loss. Anyone who uses vape products and experiences symptoms should contact their health care provider immediately.

The Health Commissioner reminds the public:

Women who are pregnant should not use e-cigarette products.
Adults who do not currently use tobacco products should not start using e-cigarette products.
If you do use e-cigarette products, you should not buy these products off the street (for example, e-cigarette products with THC or other cannabinoids).
You should not modify e-cigarette products or add any substances to these products that are not intended by the manufacturer.
Adult smokers who are attempting to quit should use evidence-based treatments, including counseling and FDA approved medications. If you need help quitting tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, contact your health care provider or call the NYS Smokers’ Quitline at 1-866-NY-QUITS (1-866-697-8487).

In addition, healthcare providers are encouraged to screen teens and adults for e-cigarette use and provide the patient with cessation guidance and support. Healthcare providers should report possible cases of vaping-associated illness to the local poison control center (1-800-222-1222), which can also help determine the need for product testing and provide instructions on where to send samples to assist in the investigation. The Onondaga County Health Department is working closely with the Upstate New York Poison Center to monitor the local impact of vaping-associated illness.

As of September 12, 2019, any business that offers e-cigarette or e-liquids for sale must post signage from the NYSDOH to educate the public on the potential risks of these products. Retailers are encouraged to contact the NYSDOH for more information on this regulation by emailing ceh.replies@health.ny.gov.

Protect your health by stopping the use of e-cigarette products and encouraging friends and family to do the same. For more information, please visit www.health.ny.gov/prevention/tobacco_control/campaign/e-cigarettes/.

Spraying of the Cicero Swamp Rescheduled to Tuesday, September 3rd

Due to public safety issues related to events over the holiday weekend, Onondaga County Health Department has rescheduled the aerial spraying of the Cicero Swamp and immediate surrounding areas to Tuesday, September 3, 2019 after 6:00 pm. Onondaga County Health Commissioner, Dr. Indu Gupta explained that, “We appreciate the public’s patience as we consider many factors that affect the scheduling of the spraying. It is extremely important that people use personal protection measures to reduce their risk of being bitten by mosquitoes while spending time outdoors this holiday weekend and into the fall season until the first heavy frost.”

If weather or wind conditions are unfavorable on Tuesday, the spraying will be conducted on the next appropriate day which will be announced to the public through local news, social media, and other communication channels. To learn more about the designated spray areas and recommended preparations to be taken by residents who live in the spray area, please visit www.ongov.net/health/env/mosquito-spraying-faq.html.

It is important to continue using personal protection measures during outdoor activities, such as wearing shoes, socks, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt when outside for a long period of time, and using mosquito repellent. It is also important to reduce the number of mosquitoes around your home by removing mosquito breeding grounds.

For more information about personal protection measures against mosquitoes, please visit www.ongov.net/health/env/mosquitoes.html or contact the Onondaga County Health Department’s Division of Environmental Health at 315. 435.1649.

Spraying of the Cicero Swamp Postponed Due to Wind Conditions

Onondaga County Health Department has postponed the aerial spraying of the Cicero Swamp and immediate surrounding areas until Saturday, August 31, 2019 due to wind conditions. Onondaga County Health Commissioner, Dr. Indu Gupta explained that, “New York State pesticide regulations prohibit the aerial application of pesticides in high wind conditions. We will continue to monitor the weather conditions and the spraying will take place as soon as possible.”

If weather or wind conditions are unfavorable on Saturday, the spraying will be conducted on the next appropriate day which will be announced to the public through local news, social media, and other communication channels. To learn more about the designated spray areas and recommended preparations to be taken by residents who live in the spray area, please visit www.ongov.net/health/env/mosquito-spraying-faq.html.

Spraying of the Cicero Swamp Postponed and Additional Findings of Viruses in Mosquito Pools

Onondaga County Health Department has postponed the aerial spraying of the Cicero Swamp and immediate surrounding areas until Thursday, August 29, 2019 due to unfavorable weather conditions. Onondaga County Health Commissioner, Dr. Indu Gupta explained, “I appreciate the public’s patience with our having to postpone aerial spraying. Please be reassured that spraying will take place as soon as possible.”

If weather or wind conditions are unfavorable on Thursday, the spraying will be conducted on the next appropriate day which will be announced to the public through local news, social media, and other communication channels. To learn more about the designated spray areas and recommended preparations to be taken by residents who live in the spray area, please visit www.ongov.net/health/env/mosquito-spraying-faq.html.

Dr. Gupta also was notified by the New York State Department of Health Wadsworth Laboratory today that mosquitoes from two traps located in the Cicero Swamp area in the town of Cicero have tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus (EEEV). Additionally, mosquitoes collected from two traps in the Cicero Swamp area and one trap in the Oot Meadows subdivision in the Town of Salina tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). Dr. Gupta explains that, “even though the mosquito counts have been steadily decreasing in our county, continued findings of EEEV and WNV in mosquitoes serve as a reminder for all residents that these viruses are present and to be consistent in protecting yourself and your family from mosquito bites no matter where you live.”

Protect Yourself from Mosquito Bites
Personal protection measures are recommended during outdoor activities, such as wearing shoes, socks, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt when outside for a long period of time. Use of a mosquito repellent containing DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol, or 2-undecanone is also recommended to prevent mosquito bites. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for application. 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 bird baths 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

Any future positive mosquito pool test results will be posted to our website: http://www.ongov.net/health/env/documents/MosquitoData.pdf

Spraying of the Cicero Swamp Scheduled for Tuesday, August 27, 2019

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 Tuesday, August 27, 2019 after 6:00 pm, weather permitting. If weather or wind conditions are unfavorable on Tuesday, 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.
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.

Mosquitoes Found Positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis and West Nile Viruses

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 both Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus (EEEV) and West Nile virus (WNV). Dr. Gupta explains that, “these viruses are spread by the bite of an infected mosquito; therefore 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.

West Nile Virus
Most people who are infected with WNV do not develop symptoms. One in five people who are infected develop a fever with symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea or rash. Severe illness can strike at any age, however, people over 60 years of age and people with certain medical conditions such as cancer, diabetes, hypertension, or who have received organ transplants, are at higher risk.

Aerial Spraying Planned
The Onondaga County Health Department is making preparations to conduct aerial spraying of the Cicero Swamp and immediate surrounding areas. Gupta explains, “This proactive measure is done in an attempt to interrupt the virus cycle in the mosquito population. Spraying temporarily reduces the number of mosquitoes and therefore fewer mosquitoes are available to transmit 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 the news media and other communication channels.

Protect Yourself from Mosquito Bites
Even though the mosquito counts have been steadily decreasing in our county, this first positive finding of EEEV and WNV in mosquitoes serves as a reminder for all residents that these viruses are 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. Use of a mosquito repellent containing DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol, or 2-undecanone is also recommended to prevent mosquito bites. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for application. 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.