West Nile Virus Detected at Marcel Lakes, Delaware Township


Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection Vector Management has reported 1 mosquito sample testing positive for West Nile Virus in Delaware Township. Additional mosquito surveillance, sampling, and larval control are being performed as necessary by County Mosquito-borne Disease Control staff.

We recommend residents take time to inspect their yards and take a few minutes to clean up and dump out any sources of stagnant water. Mosquito surveillance indicates that many common mosquito species in residential areas come from artificial containers left behind by humans. Artificial containers such as tires, boats/kayaks, buckets, child toys, tarps, and even swimming pools are preferred by mosquitoes because natural predators that prey on mosquito larvae are not present. During periods of drought, these containers continue to hold water and produce mosquitoes. One bucket or tire in someone’s backyard can produce hundreds to thousands of mosquitoes in a year. Performing a community-wide cleanup will also help reduce mosquito concerns and disease risk. Storm-water management systems can sometimes contribute to mosquito issues and are also routinely monitored by our staff.  

May through October, mosquitoes can complete their life cycle within five to seven days. Residents should use repellents when spending time outside, a variety of which could be found at most home and garden centers. For individuals who don’t like to use repellents, we recommend taking an electric fan outside with you. Mosquitoes are weak flyers and the fan will help keep them away.  As a last resort, residents can purchase insecticides from garden and hardware stores to spray in their yard but they need to be sure to follow the label instructions.

Residents can contact The Monroe County Mosquito-borne Disease Control Program by calling 570-517-3416 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . Keep in mind that the Mosquito-borne Disease Control Program aims to educate residents about the importance of mosquito larvae habitat reduction on their properties. Individuals may need to report neighbor complaints to their local municipality to rectify the concern.