Mosquitoes Test Positive for West Nile Virus 2016

Date: July 29, 2016
Contact: Brandon Cadwell, 509-754-7866

 The National Park Service wants visitors to be aware the Washington Department of Health (WDOH) is reporting some mosquitoes near the Kettle Falls Day Use and group Site campground have tested positive for West Nile Virus. Conditions this summer at Lake Roosevelt have been optimal for mosquitoes. Visitors, park staff, and our neighbors and partners have been dealing with an extraordinarily large mosquito population, especially in the north district near Kettle Falls, WA. 

The National Park Service encourages you to visit the Washington Department of Health webpage on West Nile Virus (http://www.doh.wa.gov/YouandYourFamily/IllnessandDisease/WestNileVirus) for more information on West Nile Virus in Washington State. If you have specific questions concerning West Nile Virus in Stevens County, please contact to contact Northeast Tri County Health District (www.netchd.org). National Park Service is researching appropriate methods that comply with NPS policies and regulations to try to treat and control mosquito populations.

The NPS encourages visitors to continue to plan to protect themselves from mosquitoes during their stay, especially at dawn and dusk. Loose fitting long-sleeved shirts and pants that provide 'depth' combined with a mosquito repellent will offer good protection. When using mosquito repellents look for products registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, always follow label instructions, and take special care when applying to children. Also, make sure screens to windows and doors on recreational vehicles and tents are in good working order.