Clift Park and Skaneateles Country Club Beaches Reopened for Swimming

The Onondaga County Health Department announced today that the Clift Park and Skaneateles Country Club beaches located in the Town of Skaneateles are open again for swimming following satisfactory laboratory test results. The beaches were closed on Tuesday due to visual presence of an algal bloom that has since dissipated.

As a reminder, algae findings in shallow areas are not uncommon in the summer. 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 Onondaga County Health Department remains in close contact with the City of Syracuse and the New York State Departments of Health and Environmental Conservation. To learn more about blue-green algae visit:
•    Blue-Green Algae and Health:health.ny.gov/HarmfulAlgae
•    Pets and Algae Blooms: www.dec.ny.gov/docs/water_pdf/habspets.pdf
•    NYS Department of Environmental Conservation: on.ny.gov/hab

Mosquito Pool Found Positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus

Onondaga County Health Commissioner, Dr. Indu Gupta, has been notified that a mosquito pool from a trap located at East Taft Road in the Cicero Swamp area of the town of Cicero has tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus (EEEV). Dr. Gupta explains, “EEE is a rare disease that is caused by a virus spread by the bite of an infected mosquito, therefore it is extremely important that people use personal protection measures to help reduce their risk of being bitten by a mosquito.” The Onondaga County Health Department is making preparations to conduct aerial spraying of the Cicero Swamp and immediate surrounding areas as early as next week. Gupta explains, “This proactive measure is done in an attempt to interrupt the virus cycle in the mosquito population. Reducing the number of mosquitoes (although it is temporary) can reduce the number of mosquitoes 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.

This first positive finding of EEEV in a mosquito pool as well as continued findings of West Nile Virus in mosquito pools are reminders for all residents that these viruses are present in our county, and no matter where you live, 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. 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 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. 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
•    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

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/mosquitoborne.html or contact the Onondaga County Health Department, Division of Environmental Health at (315) 435-1649.

Clift Park and Skaneateles Country Club Beaches Closed Due to Visual Presence of Algal Bloom

The Onondaga County Health Department announced today that the Clift Park and Skaneateles Country Club beaches located in the Town of Skaneateles will be closed for swimming due to the visual presence of an algal bloom. This step is being taken as a precaution and is the protocol of the Onondaga County Health Department. Water sampling will be conducted to confirm there are no toxins before the beaches are reopened.

Algae findings in shallow areas are not uncommon in the summer. 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

The Onondaga County Health Department remains in close contact with the New York State Departments of Health and Environmental Conservation. To learn more about blue-green algae visit:

Extreme Heat Precautions

Onondaga County Commissioner of Health, Dr. Indu Gupta, is advising that individuals take precaution due to the extreme heat that is expected today. The heat index – which is how hot it really feels – is expected to be in the upper 90s due to temperatures in the low 90s and dewpoints in the upper 60s. 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, “During these extreme heat conditions, residents should take steps to stay cool. The elderly, small children, overweight individuals, those with chronic health problems, or those who take certain medications are at an increased risk for heat-related illness.” To stay healthy during hot weather it is important for everyone 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 your home is not air conditioned, visit public places such as senior centers, libraries, and malls. A listing is available at: www.health.ny.gov/environmental/weather/cooling/countycenters
  • 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 prevention tips call the Onondaga County Health Department at (315) 435-3280 or visit www.ongov.net/health/heat.html or http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/faq.asp.

Two Mosquito Pools Found Positive for West Nile Virus

Onondaga County Health Commissioner, Dr. Indu Gupta, was notified that there were two positive West Nile Virus (WNV) findings in mosquito pools, one in Onondaga Lake Park and the other in the Belle Isle Road trap in the Town of Geddes. This is the first finding of WNV this year.  Dr. Gupta explained, “Even though mosquito counts are low at this time, it is extremely important that people use personal protection measures to help reduce their risk of being bitten by a mosquito.” Gupta explained that these positive findings are a reminder for all residents that the virus is present in our county, and no matter where you live, to be consistent in protecting yourself and your family from mosquito bites. It is especially important if you live in or visit woodland areas, work outside, or are involved in outdoor activities.

Reducing exposure to mosquitoes is the best way to protect yourself from WNV and other mosquito-borne viruses. 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. Applying a mosquito repellent containing DEET, Picaridin, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus, or IR3535 is also recommended to prevent mosquito bites. 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. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for application.

It is also important to reduce 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
  • 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

For the weekly mosquito pool test results and for more information about personal protection measures against mosquitoes, visit www.ongov.net/health/mosquitoborne.html
or contact the Onondaga County Health Department, Division of Environmental Health at (315) 435-1649.

Update: Water Chestnut Treatment in the Seneca River Extended into Next Week

The Onondaga County Health Department announced today that due to weather conditions this week the herbicide application to reduce the number of water chestnuts in the Seneca River will be extended into next week. The application will continue, weather permitting, on Monday, July 30 and may extend through the end of the week.

The primary herbicide that will be used for this purpose is Clearcast (active ingredient: imazamox). Rodeo (active ingredient:  glyphosate) will also be used. Clearcast and Rodeo are considered safe for the control of vegetation in and around natural bodies of water and non-cropland sites. However, Clearcast and Rodeo are 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: www.ongov.net/health/waterchestnuts.html.

For more information about the pesticides that will be used, please visit:

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 to 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.

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 on: Monday, July 23; Thursday, July 26; and Friday, July 27. Rain dates are Tuesday, July 24 and Wednesday, July 25. 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 primary herbicide that will be used for this purpose is Clearcast (active ingredient: imazamox). Rodeo (active ingredient:  glyphosate) will also be used. Clearcast and Rodeo are considered safe for the control of vegetation in and around natural bodies of water and non-cropland sites. However, Clearcast and Rodeo are 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: www.ongov.net/health/waterchestnuts.html.

For more information about the pesticides that will be used, please visit:

Extreme Heat Precautions

Onondaga County Commissioner of Health, Dr. Indu Gupta, is advising that individuals take precaution this weekend due to extreme heat. This weekend and into Monday, the heat index – which is how hot it really feels – is expected to reach 100 degrees or more, with temperatures peaking on Sunday. 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. Dr. Gupta states that “These effects can be minimized by avoiding strenuous activity or outdoor exercise.”

  • To stay healthy during hot weather it is important for everyone 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 your home is not air conditioned, visit public places such as senior centers, libraries, and malls. A listing is available at:

www.health.ny.gov/environmental/weather/cooling/countycenters

  • 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 prevention tips call the Onondaga County Health Department at (315) 435-3280 or visit www.ongov.net/health/heat.html or http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/faq.asp.

Preventing Rabies Exposure from Wild Animals

Onondaga County Health Commissioner, Dr. Indu Gupta, reminds Onondaga County residents to take precautions to protect yourself, your family, and your pets from rabies. Rabies is a deadly but preventable disease that is transmitted through the bite of a rabid animal. Fortunately, human rabies is rare in the United States. Although there is no treatment for rabies, it is PREVENTABLE.

“It is very important to never touch a wild animal”, emphasized Dr. Gupta. If you find wildlife on your property, do not touch it, even if it looks friendly. If it is sick or injured, you may contact a wildlife rehabilitator for assistance. Take the following precautions to prevent rabies:

Prevent Rabies in Your Pet and Yourself

  • Make sure rabies vaccinations are up-to-date for all your pets (dogs, cats, and ferrets).  New York State Public Health Laws requires that all puppies and kittens get their initial shot at three months of age, the first booster shot within 1 year after the initial shot, and then a booster shot every three years.  Ferrets must get a shot every year.
  • Maintain control of your pets. Keep cats and ferrets indoors and keep dogs under direct supervision.
  • Make sure to wear gloves before tending to your dog after a fight with a wild animal. Don’t forget to consult a veterinarian for further care.
  • Call your town or local municipality for assistance or guidance on how to remove stray or wild animals from your neighborhood.
  • Never try to approach nor pet a wild or unfamiliar animal, including stray cats
  • Do not bring a wild animal, such as a fox, raccoon, woodchuck, or skunk, etc. into your home or treat them as a pet.

Teach Children to Stay Safe Around Animals

  • Supervise children while interacting with animals.
  • Respect a dog’s space. Never approach a dog, especially one that is tied or confined behind a fence or in a car.  Be cautious around strange dogs. Don’t pet a dog—even your own—without letting it see and sniff you first.

Protect your Family from Bats
About 5 percent of bats may carry rabies, so take steps to keep bats out of your house:

  • Bat-proof your home. Look for holes in places like the garage, attic, and basement and plug them with steel wool. Repair window screen holes with wire mesh and caulk any openings or cracks.
  • Trap any bat found in your home—do not let it escape outdoors. Before trapping the bat, protect yourself with gloves and a hat. Collect the bat in a container with a secure lid. For complete instructions and a video on how to trap a bat visit: www.ongov.net/health/ADP.html.
  • Once the bat is caught, call the Animal Disease Control Program at (315) 435-3165 to bring the bat in for testing at our location at 4170 Route 31, Clay, NY 13041.
  • If you cannot trap the bat, call a local trapper for assistance.

Vaccinate Your Pets
Onondaga County Health Department offers rabies shot clinics at many locations throughout Onondaga County. Upcoming clinics include:
Thursday, June 21, 5:00 to 7:00 pm SPCA, 5878 East Molloy Road, Mattydale
Thursday, July 19, 4:00 to 6:00 pm Onondaga Nation Fire Department, Route 11A, Nedrow
Thursday, August 2, 5:00 to 7:00 pm Village of Minoa DPW, 100 Kalin Dr, Minoa
All shots are free for Onondaga County residents. A voluntary donation per family is appreciated. Additional rabies shot clinics will be offered throughout the year. For a complete clinic schedule call (315) 435-3280 or visit:  www.ongov.net/health/documents/RabiesClinicSchedule.pdf.

If You are Bitten by a Wild or Unfamiliar Animal
If you or a family member are bitten, or exposed to the saliva of a wild or unfamiliar animal, first wash any wounds with soap and water and seek medical treatment if necessary. Next, call the Animal Disease Control Program at (315) 435-3165 for guidance regarding concern for rabies. More information on how to address animal bites and other frequently asked questions (FAQs) can be found at: www.ongov.net/health/documents/RabiesFAQ.pdf .

For more information about rabies prevention call (315) 435-3165 or visit:
www.ongov.net/health/ADP.html
www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/zoonoses/rabies/
www.cdc.gov/rabies/