West Nile Virus (Credit: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases/Unsplash)
Efforts are underway in Bucks and Montgomery counties to combat the spread of West Nile virus after mosquito samples tested positive for the disease in several communities including Bensalem, Hulmeville and Quakertown.
While no human infections have been reported locally this year, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) confirmed 20 positive mosquito pools in Bucks and six in Montgomery since late June.
The recent surge in infected mosquitoes comes after 11 human cases were recorded across both counties over the past two years, according to MediaNews Group. Last year, Bucks reported three human infections and Montgomery four, following a combined four cases in 2023.
Nationally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has tracked 49 human cases across 15 states so far this season.
Officials said the goal is to reduce populations of nuisance mosquitoes and those capable of carrying the virus. Spraying began on July 22 in the county, in Lower Makefield, and is being conducted using truck-mounted equipment that dispenses insecticide at 0.75 ounces per acre.
According to the CDC, most people infected with West Nile virus do not fall ill. However, about 20 percent may develop symptoms such as fever, headaches, vomiting, or rashes. In rare cases, lingering fatigue can persist for months.
The DEP warns that warmer temperatures are expected to extend mosquito season and increase the risk of future infections in Pennsylvania.
