First Human Case of West Nile Virus in Onondaga County for 2017

Onondaga County Health Commissioner Dr. Indu Gupta reported today the first case of human West Nile virus infection for 2017 in a child that lives in the City of Syracuse. The child was briefly hospitalized and is expected to make a full recovery. This is the first human case of West Nile virus since 2014.

West Nile virus is spread by the bite of a mosquito infected with the virus. Dr. Gupta explained that, “West Nile virus has been found in numerous mosquito traps throughout the county this summer, and is considered to be endemic, or widespread.”

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, hypertension, 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, other than to treat the symptoms and provide supportive care. Consult with your healthcare provider if you are concerned that you have any of these signs or symptoms.

Dr. Gupta continued, “The best way to avoid West Nile Virus infection is to protect yourself from mosquito bites.” Personal protection is recommended during outdoor activities by wearing shoes, socks, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt when outside. Applying a mosquito repellent containing DEET, Picaridin, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus, or IR3535 is also recommended to prevent mosquito bites. Do not allow children to handle repellent. Put a small amount of repellent 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, thereby reducing the mosquito population:

  • Throw away outdoor containers and ceramic pots that hold water
  • Drill holes in the bottoms of recycling containers that are kept outdoors
  • 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
  • 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 Health Department will continue to post mosquito pool test results every week, please visit www.ongov.net/health/mosquitoborne.html for the most recent information. The public may also contact the Division of Environmental Health for more information at (315) 435-1649.

For more information about mosquito-borne diseases visit www.health.ny.gov/diseases/west_nile_virus/

Blue-Green Algae Update: Skaneateles Lake

Onondaga County Health Commissioner Dr. Indu Gupta announced today that the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) has confirmed that algal blooms found along the shore of Skaneateles Lake contain elevated levels of toxin. The Onondaga County Health Department, New York State, the City of Syracuse, and the Town of Skaneateles are continuously monitoring the public water supply and there continues to be no indication of a blue green algae bloom near the public water intakes in Skaneateles Lake.

The Onondaga County Health Department reminds residents who draw water directly from the lake through near-shore PRIVATE INTAKES to take the following precautions:

  • DO NOT USE the water for potable purposes such as drinking, making infant formula, making ice, brushing teeth, preparing food, or washing dishes, or for pets.
  • If either algae blooms or scums are present in the vicinity of your water intake, do not use the water for bathing.

To be clear, these recommendations apply only to residents with private intakes; in-home treatments such as boiling, disinfecting water with chlorine or ultraviolet radiation (UV), and water filtration units do not remove the toxins associated with harmful algal blooms.

The Health Department recommends taking the following additional precautions:

  • Do not swim, wade, or fish near algae blooms or surface scums
  • Do not let dogs wade, drink the water, or walk on algae-contaminated shoreline debris
  • Rinse yourself and pets with clean water if exposed to algae
  • Anyone who experiences skin or eye irritation or gastrointestinal illness should contact their health care provider.

Learn more about blue-green algae:

Blue-Green Algae Advisory Issued for Skaneateles Lake

Onondaga County Health Department has issued a Blue-Green Algae Advisory for Skaneateles Lake. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) has confirmed the presence of blue-green algae in the lake. People and their pets should avoid contact with any algae blooms, surface scums, and colored water.

Blue-green algae blooms can turn the water green and can form thick surface scums on the water. Certain types of blue-green algae can release toxins that may poison people and animals. Exposure to blue-green algae can cause skin or eye irritation or diarrhea and vomiting if ingested.

The Health Department recommends taking the following precautions:

  • Do not drink water directly from the lake
  • Do not swim, wade, or fish near algae blooms or surface scums
  • Do not let dogs wade, drink the water, or walk on shoreline debris
  • Rinse yourself and pets with clean water if exposed to algae

Anyone who has come into contact with the algae bloom or surface scum and has skin or eye irritation or gastrointestinal illness should contact their health care provider.

Learn more about blue-green algae:

 

Overdose Awareness Day, August 31

International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) is a global event held each year on August 31st with an aim to raise awareness of overdose and reduce the stigma of a drug-related death. It also acknowledges the grief felt by families and friends remembering those who have died or suffered a permanent injury as a result of drug overdose.

Globally, an estimated 190,000 people died last year from a drug overdose . Onondaga County is not immune. Between 2012 and 2016, the number of opioid-related overdose deaths has tripled among Onondaga County residents.

Onondaga County Health Commissioner, Indu Gupta, MD, MPH, stressed that an urgent response is needed by all sectors of our community. “Opioid abuse is increasing across all population groups in Onondaga County which is consistent with state and national trends. The increased use of prescription opioid pain medications, along with the widespread availability of cheap heroin and newer synthetic Fentanyl analogs, is responsible for this ongoing public health crisis.” Gupta continued, “Collaborative partnerships between communities, individuals who use drugs and their families, medical providers, public health agencies, law enforcement, businesses, educational institutions, non-profits, and policy makers is needed to reverse the tide.”

In Onondaga County, we are working with all of the partners within the Onondaga County Drug Task Force to address this crisis using a three-pronged approach:

  • Prevention: Working with medical providers and law enforcement to prevent initiation of drug use through responsible prescribing practices and preventing the diversion of prescription drugs.
  • Crisis: Building capacity to respond to opioid overdoses through naloxone training and administration.
  • Treatment and Recovery: Linking individuals to appropriate treatment resources, and supporting those in recovery.

For resources related to opioid and heroin addiction visit https://combatheroin.ny.gov/. For more information about Onondaga County’s three-pronged approach for combating opioid and heroin addiction visit /health/opioids/.over

Two Mosquito Pools Test Positive for West Nile Virus

Onondaga County Health Commissioner, Indu Gupta, MD, MPH, announced today that West Nile virus (WNV) continues to be present in Onondaga County. Two mosquito pools from samples collected last week have tested positive for WNV—one from a trap located at East Taft Road in the Town of Cicero and another in the Town of Geddes. This is the first positive finding of WNV in the Town of Geddes this year.

Dr. Gupta states that, “Disease-carrying mosquitoes will continue to be a public health concern until the first hard frost”, and reminds county residents that, “It is essential that the public continue to practice personal protection measures to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes whenever outdoors. It is important not to become complacent about consistently practicing personal protection measures”.

Personal protection is recommended during outdoor activities by wearing shoes, socks, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt when outside. Applying a mosquito repellent containing DEET, Picaridin, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus, or IR3535 is also recommended to prevent mosquito bites. Do not allow children to handle repellent. Put a small amount of repellent 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, thereby reducing the mosquito population:

  • Throw away outdoor containers and ceramic pots that hold water
  • Drill holes in the bottoms of recycling containers that are kept outdoors
  • 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
  • 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 Health Department will continue to post mosquito pool test results every week. Please visit www.ongov.net/health/mosquitoborne.html for the most recent information. The public may also contact the Division of Environmental Health for more information at (315) 435-1649.

Eight Mosquito Pools Test Positive for West Nile Virus

Onondaga County Health Commissioner Indu Gupta, MD, MPH, is notifying the public that eight mosquito pools from samples collected last week have tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). One pool was from a trap in the Town of DeWitt, two in the Town of Salina, and five in the Town of Cicero. Dr. Gupta explained, “It is evident that mosquitoes carrying West Nile Virus are present in a number of areas throughout Onondaga County. It is extremely important to protect yourself against mosquito bites, which is the best way to protect yourself from WNV and other mosquito-borne viral illnesses.” Gupta also explained that the Health Department continues to be vigilant in monitoring the county’s mosquito population and presence of virus by checking the mosquito traps twice per week and working to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds.

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, thereby reducing the mosquito population:

  • 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 more information about personal protection measures visit www.ongov.net/health/mosquitoborne.html or contact the Onondaga County Health Department, Division of Environmental Health at (315) 435-1649.

Oneida Shores Beach Reopened for Swimming

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 to water quality issues. Lisa Letteney, Director of Environmental Health, explained that water quality test results received today now show acceptable levels.

Four More Mosquito Pools Found Positive for West Nile Virus

Onondaga County Health Commissioner Indu Gupta, MD, MPH, is notifying the public that four more mosquito pools have tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). One mosquito pool was from a trap located in the Town of Lysander and the other three were located in the Town of Salina. Dr. Gupta explained, “The Health Department continues to be vigilant in monitoring the mosquito population and presence of virus by checking the mosquito traps twice per week and working to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds.” Gupta also explained that it is extremely important to protect yourself from mosquito bites, especially 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, thereby reducing the mosquito population:

  • 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 more information about personal protection measures visit www.ongov.net/health/mosquitoborne.html or contact the Onondaga County Health Department, Division of Environmental Health at (315) 435-1649.

Oneida Shores Remains Closed for Swimming

The Onondaga County Health Department announced today that Oneida Shores Beach, located in the town of Cicero, will continue to be closed for swimming due to water quality issues.  Water testing will continue and the Health Department will keep the public informed of the water quality as more information becomes available.

The Iron Girl organizers have decided to cancel the swimming portion of the event due to the current water conditions.

Mosquito Pool Found Positive for West Nile Virus

Onondaga County Health Commissioner, Indu Gupta MD, MPH, has been notified that a mosquito pool from the East Taft Road trap in the  town of Cicero has tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV).  This is the first finding of WNV this year.   Dr. Gupta explained, “It is extremely important that people use personal protection measures to help reduce their risk of being bitten by a mosquito.” Gupta also explained that it is important to protect yourself from mosquito bites, especially 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, thereby reducing the mosquito population:
  • 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 more information about personal protection measures contact the Onondaga County Health Department, Division of Environmental Health at (315) 435-1649.