Bat Positive for Rabies

Onondaga County Interim Commissioner of Health, Michelle Mignano, announced today that the New York State Health Department’s laboratory has reported that a bat found in the area of Old Liverpool Road in the town of Salina has tested positive for rabies. This is the sixth bat that has tested positive for rabies in Onondaga County this season.
Ms. Mignano stresses, “It is important to bat-proof your home now to keep bats out of your house and away from you and your family. However, if you are exposed to a bat in your home, it is important to trap the bat and call Animal Disease Control for further guidance.”

  • To bat proof your home, plug up any holes discovered with steel wool.  Also, repair window screen holes with wire mesh and caulk any other openings or cracks.
  • If your family (or your pet) has been exposed to a bat, capture the bat and have it tested for rabies. If someone is bitten by a bat, be certain to wash the area where the bite occurred with soap and water and see your health care provider immediately.
  • If you awaken to find a bat in your room, or if a bat is present in the room of an unattended or sleeping child, or in a room with someone with a mental impairment, seek medical advice and have the bat tested.
  • Trap all bats found in your house and make sure that all bats that come into direct contact with people get tested.  Before trapping the bat, protect yourself with gloves and a hat.

To trap a bat:

  • Keep the bat inside of your home (do not let it escape outdoors)
  • Shut the door of the room to keep the bat isolated
  • Turn the lights on to slow the bat down
  • Collect the bat in a container with a secure lid
  • Call the Onondaga County Health Department’s Animal Disease Control at 435-3165 for further instruction
  • To view a video on how to capture a bat, visit www.ongov.net/health

It is important to keep your pet’s vaccinations current. This is especially important for dogs, cats, and ferrets. Getting your pet vaccinated can help stop the spread of rabies from wild animals to humans.

The Onondaga County Health Department offers a number of clinics throughout the year to protect your pet from rabies. New York State Public Health Law requires that all puppies and kittens get an initial shot at three months of age, with a booster shot every three years. Ferrets must get a shot every year. For a full schedule of upcoming rabies vaccination clinics visit www.ongov.net/health, or call 435-3165.

First Evidence of West Nile Virus and Additional Evidence of Eastern Equine Encephalitis Found in Onondaga County

Onondaga County Interim Health Commissioner, Michelle Mignano, announced today that the New York State Department of Health’s laboratory has reported finding the first evidence of West Nile virus (WNV) in Onondaga County this year in two mosquito pools. One pool was collected at the Taft Road site and the other at the Geddes site which is located off Belle Isle Road. Additional evidence of Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus (EEE) was found in four mosquito pools collected in the Town of Cicero, all of which have previously tested positive for EEE: two at the Taft Road site; one at the Rt. 298 site; and one at the Island Road site. The Onondaga County Health Department is not planning on conducting aerial or ground spraying at this time. Mosquito surveillance consisting of collecting and testing mosquitoes and applying larvicides to control mosquitoes prior to them becoming adults will continue.  Ms. Mignano reminds residents, “Although mosquito counts continue to be relatively low, it is important that the public continue to practice personal protection measures to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes and to keep your yard free from standing water to reduce the mosquito population near your home until we have a hard frost.”

The Health Department would like to remind the public that mosquitoes are most active between dusk and dawn.  Personal protection is advised during outdoor activities.  Personal protection measures include 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.  Repellents containing DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, and some oil of lemon eucalyptus and para-menthane-diol products provide longer-lasting protection. 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.
The following are ways of helping to reduce 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.

For more information about personal protection measures contact the Onondaga County Health Department, Division of Environmental Health at 435-1649 or visit /health/mosquitoborne.html.

Additional Evidence of Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus Found in Onondaga County

Onondaga County Interim Health Commissioner, Michelle Mignano, announced today that the New York State Department of Health’s laboratory has reported finding additional evidence of Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus (EEE) in five mosquito pools.  All of the mosquito pools were collected in the Town of Cicero, two at the Rt. 298 site, two at the Taft Road site, and one at the Island Road site. All of these sites have previously tested positive.  The Onondaga County Health Department is not planning on conducting aerial or ground spraying at this time. Mosquito surveillance consisting of collecting and testing mosquitoes and applying larvicides to control mosquitoes prior to them becoming adults will continue.  Ms. Mignano reminds residents, “Although mosquito counts are relatively low, it is important that the public continue to practice personal protective measures to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes and to keep your yard free from standing water to reduce the mosquito population near your home until we have a hard frost.”

The Health Department would like to remind the public that mosquitoes are most active between dusk and dawn.  Personal protection is advised during outdoor activities.  Personal protection measures include 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.  Repellents containing DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, and some oil of lemon eucalyptus and para-menthane-diol products provide longer-lasting protection. 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.
The following are ways of helping to reduce 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.

For more information about personal protection measures contact the Onondaga County Health Department, Division of Environmental Health at 435-1649 or visit /health/mosquitoborne.html.

Additional Evidence of Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus Found in Onondaga County

Onondaga County Interim Health Commissioner, Michelle Mignano, announced today that the New York State Department of Health’s laboratory has reported finding additional evidence of Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus (EEE) in three mosquito pools.  Two of the mosquito pools were collected in the Town of Cicero, one at the Rt. 298 site and one at the Taft Road site. The third was collected in the Town of Salina at the Ley Creek trap.   Ms. Mignano explained, “The Onondaga County Health Department conducts an extensive larviciding program, throughout the County, that is regularly evaluated based on positive virus findings.    In response to the finding of EEE in the Ley Creek trap, the larviciding efforts in the surrounding area will be intensified”.  The larvicide used contains bacteria that target and kill larvae in their breeding habitat before they can mature into adults.

The Health Department reminds residents that personal protection measures are important in preventing mosquito borne illness.  Mosquitoes are most active between dusk and dawn.  Personal protection is advised during outdoor activities.  Personal protection measures include 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.  Repellents containing DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, and some oil of lemon eucalyptus and para-menthane-diol products provide longer-lasting protection. 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.
The following are ways of helping to reduce 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.

For more information about personal protection measures contact the Onondaga County Health Department, Division of Environmental Health at 435-1649 or visit /health/mosquitoborne.html

Oneida Shores Beach is Open Again for Swimming

Onondaga County Interim Health Commissioner, Michelle Mignano, announced today that Oneida Shores Beach, located in the town of Cicero, is re-opening for swimming.   Swimming at Oneida Shores was closed for swimming due to high levels of bacteria (E.coli) in the water. Kevin Zimmerman, Director of Environmental Health, explained that lake water quality test results received today are now at acceptable levels.

Update on Ground Spraying for Mosquitoes in Cicero Neighborhoods

Onondaga County Interim Health Commissioner, Michelle Mignano, announced today that the ground spraying for mosquitos will take place on Monday August 18th or Tuesday, August 19th between the hours of 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m., weather permitting. Ground spraying will be done in neighborhoods surrounding the Cicero Swamp. All residents in this spray area will be notified about this change by the emergency reverse telephone 911 notification systems.

For more information or to view the mosquito spraying area map, visit /health/PublicNotice.html or call the Onondaga County Health Department at 435-1649.

Oneida Shores Park Beach Closed to 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 monitors lake water routinely and closes swimming when bacteria levels exceed 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.

AUGUST IS NATIONAL IMMUNIZATION AWARENESS MONTH

Is your child ready to go back to school?
To celebrate the importance of immunizations throughout life, and to make sure children are protected with all the vaccines they need, the Onondaga County Immunization Program is observing National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM).   During NIAM, parents are encouraged to check with their child’s health care provider to make sure your child has all of the required vaccinations for daycare or school.
Before the start of school, children are required by New York State law to be up-to-date on their shots. Immunization requirements for school entrance have changed this school year to more closely match the immunization schedule determined each year by the Advisory Committee for Immunization Practices (ACIP). The goal of the changes is to assure that more children are fully immunized, and not just getting the vaccines required for daycare or school entrance.  For a chart showing what vaccines are needed visit the Onondaga County Health Department immunization webpage at www.ongov.net.
Without up-to-date vaccinations, children are not allowed entrance to school. Contact your child’s health care provider to make sure your child has all the needed immunizations for this school year.   Schedule your appointment TODAY for any needed immunizations. For more information on immunizations, contact the Onondaga County Health Department at 435-2000.

Oneida Shores Beach is Open Again for Swimming

The Onondaga County Health Department announced today that Oneida Shores Beach is re-opening for swimming at Oneida Shores Park in the town of Cicero. Oneida Shores was closed due to the presence of blue green algae in the water.  Kevin Zimmerman, Director of Environmental Health, explained that lake water quality test results received today are now at acceptable levels.

Onondaga County Resident Diagnosed with Eastern Equine Encephalitis

Onondaga County Interim Health Commissioner, Michelle Mignano, was notified by the New York State Department of Health today that an Onondaga County adult resident has been diagnosed with Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE).   Ms. Mignano explained, “This is the first known human case of EEE in Onondaga County since 2010.  It is essential that residents consistently take measures to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes”.   Mignano stated that the individual is currently hospitalized and is in stable condition.  To protect the privacy of this patient and of the family, additional details are not being shared with the public.

EEE is a rare but dangerous viral infection that is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. The virus can cause encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain. Initial symptoms, which usually start 4-10 days after the bite, can include fever, headache, and vomiting. Illness can then progress to altered mental status, confusion, seizures, coma, and even death. The greatest risk for infection with this virus is for people who spend a lot of time outdoors.

The Onondaga County Health Department conducted   aerial spraying of the Cicero swamp on July 22, 2014 and explained if additional spraying is determined necessary, the public will be notified through the media and by the emergency reverse 911 notification system.

It is important that the public continue to take measures to minimize being bitten by mosquitoes and to keep your yard free from standing water to reduce the mosquito population near your home. Mosquitoes are most active between dusk and dawn.  Personal protection is advised during outdoor activities.  Personal protection measures include wearing shoes and 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.
The following are ways of helping to reduce 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

For more information about Eastern Equine Encephalitis contact or  about personal protection measures contact the Onondaga County Health Department, Division of Environmental Health at 435-1649 or visit /health/mosquitoborne.html or
https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/west_nile_virus/mosquitoes_and_disease_faq_htm.