08/29/2025
West Nile Virus has been detected in a mosquito sample collected in Tionesta Borough in Forest County. This is the first sample to test positive for this virus this year in Forest County. Additional monitoring will be done in the area where these mosquito samples were collected and appropriate control work will be conducted, depending on the number and types of mosquitoes that are found.
At this time, no human cases of West Nile Virus have been reported in Forest County. Most people do not develop symptoms, while some may have a fever, fatigue, headache or mild flu-like symptoms. Severe illness can occur in people of any age; however, people over 60 years of age are at greater risk. Reduce the risk of infection by preventing mosquito bites. If you think you or a family member might be infected, talk with your healthcare provider.
Businesses and residents located in Warren should take extra precautions, such as applying insect repellant and wearing long sleeve shirts and pants when outdoors during dusk and dawn. All businesses and residents should reduce mosquito breeding habitat by eliminating standing water, such as bird baths, discarded tires, or any other containers capable of retaining standing water.
Prevent mosquito bites with the following tips:
• Insect repellants with DEET can be applied as directed to exposed skin and clothing.
• Stay indoors at dawn, dusk, and early evening when mosquitoes are most active. If you must go outdoors, wear a long-sleeved shirt and long pants.
• Make sure window and door screens are bug tight.
• Mosquitoes are repelled by high winds, so electric fans may provide some relief at outdoor events.
Reduce the number of mosquitoes around homes and neighborhoods by:
• Getting rid of standing water, where mosquitoes lay their eggs.
• Dispose of any refuse that can hold water—such as tin cans, containers and used tires.
• Control products such as mosquito dunks can be obtained from garden centers.
• Drill holes in the bottoms of recycling containers and check uncovered junk piles.
• Clean clogged roof gutters every year. Check storm drains, leaky faucets, and window wells.
• Empty accumulated water from wheelbarrows, boats, cargo trailers, toys, and ceramic pots. If possible, turn them over when not using them.
• Do not allow water to stagnate in birdbaths, ornamental pools, water gardens and swimming areas.
More information about West Nile Virus can be found at: https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dep/programs-and-services/integration/vector-management/mosquitoes.
Best,
Eric Mosbacher | Aquatic Biologist II
Department of Environmental Protection
230 Chestnut St | Meadville, PA 16335
Phone: 814.332.6877 | Cell: 814.282.7391
www.dep.pa.gov
DEP protects Pennsylvania's air, land, and water from pollution.
