Local Mosquitoes Test Positive For West Nile Virus

July 28, 2025 3:33 pm

The Allegheny County Health Department announced that additional mosquito samples have tested positive for West Nile Virus, prompting plans to spray seven Pittsburgh neighborhoods on Wednesday. The health department will use Zenivex E20, a pesticide classified by the EPA as low-risk, to treat areas in Point Breeze, Regent Square, Edgewood, Wilkinsburg, East Hills, Homewood, and Highland Park. The spraying aims to reduce the local mosquito population and minimize the risk of human transmission of West Nile Virus. The spraying will be conducted using a truck-mounted Ultra Low Volume (ULV) sprayer from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. In case of rain, the spraying will be rescheduled for the following day, July 31st, during the same hours. There are currently no vaccines to prevent or medications to treat West Nile Virus. Residents who suspect they have the virus are advised to consult a healthcare provider. Residents are encouraged to help reduce mosquito breeding sites by eliminating stagnant water in places like tires, unused swimming pools, and clogged gutters. Reports of mosquito breeding sites can be made to the Allegheny County Health Department.