|
EH Complaint Form
Please copy and complete form above, then e-mail the completed form
to Suzen Hyde |
 |

Staff will provide consultation regarding:
mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, biting flies, bats, etc. for the general public.
WEST NILE VIRUS - Mosquito Complaints / Dead Bird Reports
West Nile Virus
WA WNV Numbers
West Nile Virus
|
Culex tarsalis
Photo credit: James Gathany, CDC

|
|
|
|
Hanta Virus
Before you tackle that shed,
barn or cabin see
Spring Clean Up |
|
Black flies are small, biting flies that are a nuisance to people and animals living, working, or playing near running rivers and streams. Black flies are sensitive to weather conditions. They are most active on cloudy, humid days with low wind.
These flies are typically dark in color and some species are also referred to as ‘punkies’ or ‘no-see-um’s’. On people, they crawl into sleeves, under neck bands, around boot tops and other vulnerable places, especially favoring the head just beneath the rim of a hat. Bites can cause swelling and numb soreness for many days.
The painfully itchy bite of the black fly is created when it cuts a hole in the skin to suck blood from animals and people. The flies attack around the eyes, ears, scalp and occasionally on the arms and exposed legs. The pain and swelling of the bite are due to the body’s allergic response to the fly’s saliva that they inject when feeding. Fortunately, black flies do not transmit any diseases to humans in Washington state, but can cause discomfort and irritation.
Again, although black flies are a nuisance, they do not transmit disease, and therefore are not considered a public health risk. |
 |
|
 |
 |
BUGS &
INSECTS

Going hiking?
Prepare for ticks as the warm weather hits!
Hiking Tips
========================
Take these simple steps for biting flies:
- Avoid areas where black flies are active during the day, especially at dusk and dawn.
- Wear light-colored long pants and long sleeves, especially whites and tans. Also wear a light colored hat.
- Consider using insect repellent to reduce your chance of being bitten.
- If you are bitten, clean the bite and apply topical products to reduce itching. Avoid scratching to reduce chances of infection.
***
Contact Environmental Health or call (509) 886-6450 |
|
|