Category Archives: Press Releases

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… Read more >

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… Read more >

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… Read more >

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… Read more >

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… Read more >

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… Read more >

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.… Read more >

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 for the remainder of the season due to the visual presence of an algal bloom. Please note that although closed for swimming, the park’s other amenities remain open during normal hours of operation. Algal blooms… Read more >

Time for Back-to-School Vaccines!

August is National Immunization Awareness Month Now is the time to make sure your children’s vaccinations (shots) are up-to-date so that they are ready to return to school in September. Having all school required vaccines protects your child from harmful infections, protects your family, their classmates and the community. It is important to contact your… Read more >

Jamesville Beach Approved to Reopen for Swimming

The Onondaga County Health Department announced today that Jamesville Beach is approved to be reopened for swimming following satisfactory laboratory test results. The beach was closed on August 2 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.… Read more >