Franklin County Commissioners to Administer West Nile Virus Prevention

Franklin County Commissioners will pursue funding to administer the West Nile Virus Program in Franklin County. Since 2000, Pennsylvania's State budget has included funding to prevent potential public-health effects of West Nile on state residents. Penn State Cooperative Extension has been delivering the local program but recently indicated that they will discontinue administration of the program at the end of 2018.

“This comprehensive program has been instrumental in its surveillance, testing and education regarding West Nile Virus. The measures taken by this program to control the mosquito population in Franklin County have been successful and need to continue,” said Commissioner Chairman Dave Keller.

According to the Penn State Cooperative Extension, this year has seen the highest number of positive West Nile Virus cases in humans. Franklin County ranked third highest in the state.

“From 2006 to 2017, we’ve had 8 cases. This year, we’ve already had 8 cases in Franklin County,” said Commissioner Bob Thomas.

Although there is no specific antiviral medication or preventative vaccine for West Nile Virus, the threat of infection ends with the first frost.

Funding would cover program coordination, a seasonal technician and supplies. Consideration is being given to include Lyme Disease education and prevention.

For more information on West Nile Virus in Pennsylvania, please visit http://www.westnile.state.pa.us/.

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