Franklin County Public Health has been actively trapping mosquitoes since mid-May to monitor the population and test for West Nile virus (WNV). Through this surveillance, we know one trap in the Franklin County has tested positive for WNV. As a result, mosquito spraying is scheduled for:
Wednesday, June 24
- Prairie Township (West)
Spraying will begin around 9:00 p.m. (weather permitting).
Detailed maps of the areas that will be sprayed can be found on our mosquito website. Residents are encouraged to visit the website often for spray maps and other mosquito information.
It is not unexpected to see WNV in mosquitoes in our community. It has been present for many years. When it appears can vary from year to year. Surveillance is just one part of our comprehensive mosquito management program.
It is a good reminder for residents to take precautionary steps to protect themselves and their families.
- Wear insect repellent containing DEET (follow package directions).
- Limit outdoor activity at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
- Mosquitoes breed in small amounts of water so empty all standing water around your home (like in planters, containers, pet dishes, bird baths, tires etc.)
WNV can be transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. Symptoms include mild fever, headache and body aches, often with skin rash and swollen lymph glands. Eighty percent of people bitten by an infected mosquito will not show any symptoms at all. Less than one percent of those who do have symptoms will become severely ill. In 2019, there were no human cases of WNV in Franklin County.
To report mosquito problem areas in your community, please go to our mosquito website to complete a service request form or call (614) 525-BITE (2483). Any unanswered calls will be returned within one business day.
Residents of the City of Columbus should call 311.