Mosquito battle continues after two illnesses in Central Ohio

DELAWARE, Ohio — A second case of lacrosse encephalitis in Central Ohio is leading area health officials on the offensive against mosquitoes. A woman in Ashley was hospitalized with symptoms of the mosquito-borne illness, but has been released, according to officials with the Delaware General Health District. District officials led a campagin of fogging and door-to-door notifications last week.

"In rare cases, it can cause encephalitis, which is a swelling of the brain," said Adam Howard, environmental manager for the district. "In less than one percent it would be fatal."

District officials last week dropped information, screen repair kits, and mosquito repellant at doors in the neighborhood. They also urge neighbors to eliminate standing water. Mosquitoes need as little water as it takes to fill a bottle cap to breed. The breeding takes seven days for mosquitoes to go from eggs to larva.

Neighbors in Ashley said they will take more precautions after the encephalitis case last week. Shelley Woodruff said she will cover her children's kiddie pool more regularly.

"I bought a tarp to keep it covered hoping that will keep the mosquitoes away," she said.

The Delaware General Health District will also offer free larvacide for neighbors with concerns about standing water on their property.