ODH trapping mosquitoes

The Ohio Department of Health will be conducting surveillance on mosquitos to test for West Nile Virus in Van Wert County, beginning in the next couple of weeks. The mosquito trapping will continue throughout the summer. Surveillance and testing are being done to see if mosquitos in the county are carrying the West Nile Virus disease. Surveillance will help to determine whether WNV disease is in the area and where to focus control measures and education on preventing mosquito bites. ODH will be setting out gravid traps in various locations, such as in public parks and campgrounds within the county, to perform surveillance. The gravid trap is a plastic washbasin, filled with a liquid attractant that may produce an odor. The Van Wert County Health Department asks that area residents who see the traps avoid disturbing them. (photo submitted)