ORLANDO, Fla. – Orange County has been spraying as part of ongoing efforts to combat the spread of the West Nile Virus following the recent impacts of Hurricane Milton.
Orange County officials announced they will be using EPA-approved insecticides over designated areas to target mosquitoes.
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According to Steve Harrison, the county’s mosquito control manager, the presence of standing water after both Hurricane Milton and Hurricane Helene has created ideal conditions for the West Nile Virus to spread.
“Areas that might have a lot of West Nile activity include wild birds harboring the virus,” Harrison said. “At that point, you want to bring in aerial spraying because it can cover a wider area much faster and ensure a thorough application.”
So far, one case of West Nile Virus has been reported in Orange County, prompting the health department to issue a mosquito-borne illness advisory. This alert follows both the human case and the detection of the virus in wildlife throughout the area.
News 6′s Erik von Ancken recently demonstrated simple steps homeowners can take to prevent mosquitoes from breeding on their properties. His advice includes removing standing water and using mosquito control products, such as Mosquito Dunk tablets, to reduce the risk of mosquito-borne diseases.
Orange County officials also emphasized that they will continue monitoring for other mosquito-borne diseases, including the Sloth and Dengue fevers.
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