Mayor Nickels' Message to City Employees:
West Nile Virus

Dear City employees,

Public health officials expect to see local cases of West Nile virus (WNV) this year, but the City is taking action and providing information to respond to these concerns. City employees are receiving information about how to reduce the possibility of mosquito bites. We are also surveying City facilities to reduce potential mosquito habitat.

WNV is a mosquito-borne disease that was detected in western Washington in birds and horses in 2002. Washington and Oregon are the only states in the continental U.S. that have not yet had a reported human case of the disease. Most infected people don't get sick, but 20 percent of people infected have mild-to-severe flu-like symptoms, and 1 percent of those infected develop life-threatening illnesses.

Reducing breeding habitat is the most effective way to reduce the number of mosquitoes and the likelihood of infection. Mosquitoes can breed in even small amounts of water left standing for more than about seven days. Be vigilant about eliminating standing water in and around City facilities and City property. In addition, take appropriate personal protection measures (wear long pants and long sleeves, use insect repellent if desired) to avoid mosquito bites. Please review the common questions and answers developed by Public Health - Seattle & King County at www.metrokc.gov/health/westnile/faq.htm or contact Public Health's WNV hotline, (206) 205-3883.

Working together we can reduce the risks from West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne diseases for ourselves and for the citizens we serve.

Sincerely,

GREG NICKELS
Mayor

Posted: June 18, 2004