WEST NILE VIRUS SURVEILLANCE FUNDING ON THE WAY TO AREA COUNTIES

(HARRISBURG) - - $225,000 in funding for area counties to participate in the 2005 state Mosquito Surveillance program has been approved by the Department of Environmental Protection, according to Senator John R. Gordner (R-27).

"Since 2000, we have included funding in the state budget to prevent and mitigate potential public health effects of West Nile Virus," said Sen. Gordner. "DEP has worked with all 67 counties to develop a comprehensive mosquito control network because the virus is transmitted by mosquitoes and early detection and control is the key to combat the virus."

Area county allocations include:

$55,735 for Columbia County
$56,572 for Montour County
$58,245 for Northumberland County
$54,055 for Snyder County

The state Departments of Health and Agriculture work with the Department of Environmental Protection to implement the West Nile Virus Program. In addition to surveillance through laboratory testing to confirm the presence of West Nile Virus in dead birds, the Departments work with health care providers to educate them about the signs and symptoms of West Nile Virus.

CONTACT: Todd B. Roup (717)787-8928