Spraying for mosquitoes will take place on the IUP campus between the Robertshaw Building and the Kovalchick Convention and Athletic Complex after mosquitoes carrying the West Nile virus were found in a trap in that area.
The Indiana County West Nile Virus Control Program plans to spray between 7:30 and 9:00 p.m. Thursday, August 25, 2011. During the spraying, the R&P parking lot (where the marching band practices) and the walking trail that extends from that lot to South Thirteenth Street will be closed.
Spraying will occur in three main areas:
- the walking trail
- a wetland along the trail
- a stormwater retention pond near the Kovalchick Complex
Indiana County's West Nile virus program, based out of the Penn State Cooperative Extension, has advised nearby residents to remain indoors, close windows, and avoid hanging laundry outside during the spraying. Food and water bowls for animals should be emptied and cleaned after the spraying.
According to a story in the Indiana Gazette, mosquitoes carrying the disease have been found in other parts of the county as well.
Those affected by the West Nile virus can develop an inflammation of the brain, though the likelihood of catching the virus is very low, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
For more information on the spraying, see the Indiana Gazette story “West Nile Found Locally.” Learn more about virus control on the .