In late August, the Warren County Mosquito Commission received reports that three of the pests were spotted at the Filmore Street cemetery in Phillipsburg. The commission, concerned with the mosquito’s history of carrying viruses such as West Nile and Yellow Fever, swung into action.
Phillipsburg locals were asked to dispose of any standing water they encountered, as these pests breed in stagnant pools. A few days later, a reverse 911 call went out to area residents, warning them that the Asian tiger mosquito was on the prowl.
After three weeks and 19 mosquito encounters, the commission implemented its formal a plan of attack on September 6, spraying pesticides in mosquito hot beds throughout Phillipsburg. At least 108 dead mosquitos were found; so far, none has tested positive for West Nile.
Oddly, the outbreak seems to be isolated to Phillipsburg and its surrounding areas. The commission hopes to keep it that way.
Mosquitos are typically active from April to October, so with the season nearing its end, there’s a good chance that this crop of Asian tigers has roared its last. Still, anyone in the vicinity should dump any freestanding water around the house, check window screens for tears or holes and opt for long sleeves and pants to keep the skin covered.