The Onondaga County Health Department announced today that Oneida Shores Beach, located in the town of Cicero, is open again for swimming. Swimming at Oneida Shores was closed due water quality issues. Lisa Letteney, Director of Environmental Health, explained that water quality test results received today now show acceptable levels.
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 although closed for swimming, the park’s other amenities remain open during normal hours of operation.
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
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
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:
- 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
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 https://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: