Mosquitoes breeding faster after rainy spring

By Ed Ernstes (ernstes@wsbt.com)

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In some parts of Indiana, mosquitoes are breeding three to five times greater than normal. But experts say that doesn't necessarily mean greater risk of West Nile. (WSBT photo)

By Beth Boehne

Story Created: Jun 15, 2009 at 4:15 PM EST

Story Updated: Jun 19, 2009 at 1:47 PM EST

ELKHART — Indiana state health officials are warning the heavy rainfall this spring could bring more mosquitoes and increased cases of West Nile.

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In some parts of the state, the mosquitoes are breeding three to five times greater than normal.

Donna Schwier and some family members enjoyed a beautiful Monday at Oxbow Park, but she doesn't take any chances when it comes to mosquitoes.

“I always put spray on me and the kids because I'm just afraid of whatever diseases or whatever you get,” she told WSBT News.

The Elkhart County Health Department is working to figure out what the mosquito population is locally. The recent heavy rains have increased breeding sites.

“The rainfall that we got certainly is going to fill up some of the containerized breeding locations or depressed areas and promote some of the activity in the flood water areas,” said John Hulewicz of the Environmental Health Office.

With more mosquitoes, you would think that means more chances for West Nile. Experts say maybe not.

“The abundant rainfall doesn't necessarily mean you're going to have the right species that have the potential to transmit disease,” Hulewicz explained.

State health officials working with Elkhart County on assessing the mosquito population haven't yet found any carrying the disease around Indiana.

“We will travel around the state and supplement what the county collects mosquito-wise,” said Lee Green with the Indiana Health Department. “So far this year we've collected over 8,000 mosquitoes, all of which have tested negative for West Nile Virus.”

Health officials say even though there is no sure way to predict how big the mosquito population could get, it’s always best to play it safe.

“I don't come out unless we have spray on,” Schwier added.

Officials with the St. Joseph County Health Department say they think West Nile has run its course in Indiana. No human cases have been reported this year. Last year, only three cases were confirmed.

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