Health crews spray surrounding areas of Centerville park as West Nile precaution

CENTERVILLE — Montgomery County Public Health crews sprayed areas near Iron Horse park Thursday night in Centerville after a mosquito found in the area last week tested positive for West Nile Virus.

>>RELATED: Mosquitoes captured in Centerville park test positive for West Nile Virus

The mosquito was one of 16 found in Montgomery Co. carrying the virus, and health officials are taking precautions in the midst of the highest year for West Nile activity since 2012.

The spraying, scheduled for Tuesday evening but canceled due to weather conditions, targets areas surrounding the park on Millshire Drive.

"It's definitely concerning," Kettering resident Corey Dennison told News Center 7's Sean Cudahy.

Dennison likes to skateboard at the park, and says he came somewhat prepared.

“I did wear a little bit more clothes. I probably should have used some bug spray for sure.”

City officials say you don’t need to be concerned with the fog sprayed in the neighborhoods when it comes to pet safety. You don’t need to worry about keeping them inside, nor do you have to keep your car windows rolled up.

>>RELATED: Vandalia mosquitoes test positive for West Nile Virus

Health officials caution the spray helps control the mosquito population, but say you should still protect yourself by doing the following:

• Mosquitoes need quiet water to lay eggs and for the eggs to develop into adult mosquitoes. No water, no mosquitoes.
• Eliminate stagnant water in rain gutters, buckets, old tires and other water-holding containers.
• Keep your trash cans covered at all times.
• Change water at least weekly in birdbaths, wading pools and plant pots.
• Fill in or drain low spots, tree holes and hollow stumps in your yard.
• Repair leaky pipes and outdoor faucets.
• Keep your lawn and shrubbery trimmed.
• Keep ditches, drains and culverts clear and free-flowing.
• Do not over water your lawn or garden.
• Avoid exposure to mosquitoes. Stay inside at dusk and dawn, when they are most active.
• Wear light-colored clothing with long sleeves and long pants.
• Avoid physical exertion, especially when mosquitoes are most active.
• Use colognes and perfumes sparingly.
• Use mosquito repellents. Read the label and use sparingly in the weakest formulation that does the job, particularly on children.