In the fall of 1999, West Nile virus, a mosquito-borne infection that can cause encephalitis, was found in New York State. Mosquitoes are small flying insects that feed on human and animal blood or plant juices. Only female mosquitoes bite to get a blood meal for their growing eggs. There are about 65 different species of mosquitoes in New York State.
Mosquitoes can develop in any stagnant water that lasts more than four days.
Dispose of tin cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots or similar water-holding containers. Remove all discarded tires. Used tires have become the most common mosquito breeding site in the country. Drill holes in the bottoms of recycling containers that are kept outdoors. Make sure roof gutters drain properly, and clean clogged gutters in the spring and fall.