As a responsible land owner and to protect public health and safety, WSDOT remains committed to help reduce the threat of West Nile Virus. WSDOT has established a three-part West Nile virus action plan that emphasizes education, surveillance and control. This strategy helps protect ourselves, our families, and our communities.
In 2010, nationwide there were 981 positive cases of the West Nile virus, with 45 deaths. In 2010, there were two human cases of West Nile virus in Washington. Alaska and Hawaii are the only states that have not been affected.
WSDOT makes the most of limited resources by focusing on field staff training and awareness. When possible, WSDOT designs its roadsides to reduce mosquito breeding areas and encourage natural mosquito larvae predators. Although large ponds and wetlands are common places for many mosquito species to breed, these are not popular places for the mosquitoes most likely to spread the virus to humans.
WSDOT employees are trained to test, or dip, possible roadside breeding areas such as ponds and ditches for mosquito larvae. WSDOT has implemented Department of Ecology’s “Best Management Practices For Mosquito Control” as our integrated pest management plan. WSDOT uses natural bacterium called Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) and Bacillus sphaericus to control mosquito larvae if found. The products we use are applied in the form of pellets or briquettes and are natural larvicides that do not harm fish or animals.
Staff are trained to notice and collect certain species of dead birds for potential West Nile virus testing by the Department of Health. Birds that test positive for West Nile virus are a good indicator that the virus is active in an area.
The Department of Health works with local health partners to reduce potential exposure to West Nile virus. Monitoring — including mosquito surveillance and dead bird testing — resumed this spring. Health agencies advise other state and local agencies on West Nile virus planning, surveillance, control and prevention.
Other questions about West Nile virus? The Department of Health West Nile virus information line 1-866-78-VIRUS (1-866-788-4787) and the agency’s West Nile virus website are excellent resources.
For more information regarding WSDOT’s preparation for West Nile Virus, contact Norm Payton at (360) 705-7848 or e-mail paytonn@wsdot.wa.gov