Contact:       Susan Tolchin                                            (914) 285-2932

                   Mary Landrigan                                         (914) 285-2935

 ST LOUIS ENCEPHALITIS CASES

County Executive Andrew J. Spano and Health Commissioner Dr. Harold N. Adel today announced that the Centers for Disease Control has confirmed two cases and one highly probable case of St. Louis encephalitis in residents of Westchester County.

Westchester County Health Commissioner Dr. Harold N. Adel stated, "Two of these residents have spent some time in areas of New York City where cases have been reported. However, because their exposure to St. Louis encephalitis virus in Westchester County is likely and cannot be ruled out, the Health Department is initiating a program of spraying for mosquitoes in the potentially affected areas of Westchester County."

In consultation with the New York City Health Department, the New York State Health Department, and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, Westchester County has identified two areas for aerial spraying, preferably of pyrethroid pesticides, later this week :

"Optimal application of insecticides requires specific weather conditions (no rain, little wind). Therefore, the timing of pesticide spraying is dependent upon weather conditions and will be publicized as soon as available," stated Dr. Harold N. Adel, Health Commisioner.

In keeping with Westchester County's commitment to integrated pest management, the Health Department will be utilizing the least toxic pesticides available for this purpose. Our preference is to use pyrethroid pesticides. These synthetic pyrethroids are similar to the natural pyrethrin pesticides found in crysanthemums.. This type of pesticide was recommended and used in New York City for ground applications. Some types of pyrethroids are commonly used in over-the-counter ant and roach sprays. Because pyrethroids resemble plant products, they do have a slight potential to aggravate allergic conditions such as asthma and hay fever.

"Although no pesticide can be considered completely harmless, this is the safest type of pesticide available for the task. As was true in New York City, residents should not experience any ill effects from this spraying. However, since some people are particularly sensitive to exposure to plants, pollens, or pesticides, we recommend that everyone avoid being unnecessarily exposed to this product. The spraying will take

place after dark to minimize the exposure to area residents. Residents are advised to keep their windows closed and either turn off their air conditioners or adjust them so that they re-circulate the room air for several hours following the spraying, stated Dr. Adel. "The insecticide being used dissipates very readily. After several hours, only minimal amounts of the product should be discernible," he noted.

The schedule for pesticide spraying will be publicized as soon as it is available.

Residents are advised to remove children's toys and pets’ feeding bowls from outdoor areas prior to the spraying. Any materials left outdoors can be washed down with soap and water to eliminate any residue remaining the next day.

Additional information on St. Louis encephalitis and on mosquito spraying is found on the Westchester County Health Department website, www.westchestergov.com/health. The St. Louis Encephalitis hotline, 285-2032, is being activated between the hours of noon - 10 pm on Tuesday, September 21, 1999 and between 10 am - 10 pm on Wednesday, September 22nd through Friday, September 24^, 1999.

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