Westchester Insider: STATEMENT FROM WESTCHESTER COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT ON EASTERN EQUINE ENCEPHALITIS.

Statement from Westchester County Health Department on Eastern Equine Encephalitis.

We were saddened to learn of the passing of Steven Perry, a 41-year-old man from New Hampshire, due to Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), a rare but deadly virus spread by mosquitoes.

Here in Westchester County, no humans have contracted EEE, and no mosquito pools have tested positive for the virus. The County Health Department continues to monitor and test local mosquito populations for viruses such as EEE and West Nile Virus.

We encourage all residents to take precautions to protect themselves and their families, including eliminating standing water around their homes, using mosquito repellents, and avoiding outdoor activities during peak mosquito hours, from dusk to dawn.

The Westchester County Health Department cautions residents to prevent mosquitoes from breeding in their yards by dumping out standing water from flower pot drip trays, unused kiddie pools, and other places where water can collect after it rains. Those spending time outdoors between dusk and dawn are advised to wear repellents to avoid mosquito bites.

Residents who notice large areas of standing water on public property should report them to the County Health Department at (914) 813-5000.

For more ideas on how to reduce the mosquito population near your home, visit https://health.westchestergov.com/west-nile-virus.