Washington County Mosquito Control monitors and controls mosquitoes and educates the community about preventing mosquitoes from breeding.
Prevention
Mosquitoes need standing water to breed. Look for and eliminate the places around your home where water collects. Anything that can hold water for more than a few days should be emptied weekly, covered, or turned upside down.
Use EPA-registered insect repellents. They are safe and effective when used as directed.
Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
Make sure open windows and doors have screens.
More information can be found at the CDC website https://www.cdc.gov/westnile/prevention/index.html.
Mosquito fish
Mosquito fish (Gambusia affinis) eat mosquitoes. They are available free to residents of Washington County for use in their ornamental ponds, unused pools, animal troughs, and other self-contained bodies of water. Call 503-846-8722 for details.
Additional information about mosquito fish is available from the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.
West Nile virus
West Nile virus is a potentially serious illness that can attack the nervous system of animals and humans. It is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. For more information, visit the State of Oregon's website.
Report a dead bird
Testing birds is important because it may provide an early indication of the spread of West Nile virus in Washington County. To report a dead bird found within Washington County, call 503-846-8722.
- Do not touch the dead bird with bare hands.
- If you must touch the bird, wear disposable gloves, and place the bird in a plastic bag. If possible, place bird in shaded area.
- Dispose of gloves and wash hands immediately.
- Keep children and pets away from the bird.