Welcome to Johnson County Public Health - West Nile Virus FAQ


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Mosquito Breeding Site
Frequently Asked Questions

bullet I saw a pond, ditch, or artificial container that looks like a perfect mosquito-breeding site. Should I be concerned and what can I do?

Mosquitoes have the ability to breed in almost any place that holds water. However, there are certain species of mosquitoes involved in the transmission of West Nile Virus, not all mosquitoes can transmit the disease. There are characteristics of a mosquito breeding site that should be considered before becoming concerned. The mosquitoes that transmit West Nile Virus are of the Culex species and prefer the characteristics listed below as their breeding sites:

Ponds
bullet Excessive plant growth on banks and in water
bullet Tall grass on banks leading to the pond
bullet Little or no slope in the bank leading into the pond
bullet Algae growth
bullet Waste pond or sewage lagoon
bullet Stagnant; sheltered from wind

Ditches
bullet Always have water present, regardless of recent rainfall
bullet Excessive grass and plant growth around the water
bullet Algae growth
bullet Stagnant; sheltered from wind

Artificial Containers
bullet Plant stands, tires, small swimming pools, bird baths, pet bowls, even old vehicles where water collects for more than a week at a time and is not regularly changed or emptied.
bullet Stagnant; sheltered from wind

It is important to note that a very common species of mosquito, the Aedes, breeds in many more locations than the Culex will. Aedes are not primary vectors in the transmission of West Nile Virus. Also, the Culex will not travel as the Aedes. The Culex mosquitoes will usually stay within a mile of their breeding site.

 bullet When should I call the health department with a concern about standing water?

 Johnson County Public Health is logging standing water sites that are reported and assessing the sites if necessary. The actions taken by the department following a standing water report depend on whether the site has characteristics for breeding the mosquitoes that may transmit West Nile Virus. You may contact Johnson County Public Health at (319) 356-6040 if you have a concern about a standing water site.

 bullet How do I get my neighbor to remove containers holding water that could breed mosquitoes from their yard?

If you notice containers in your neighbor's yard such as plant holders, old milk jugs, or pet water bowls that are not emptied 2-3 times a week, try talking to him or her about your concern. They could be breeding mosquitoes in their yard and may not be aware of it. You may suggest they empty the containers 2-3 times a week, or refer them to the Johnson County Public Health Fight the Bite website here.  It is important to try to prevent mosquito breeding, especially in early summer, to reduce to spread of West Nile Virus.

If your concern involves tires being stored on a property see question 3 for more information.

bullet How do I get my neighbor to remove old tires from their yard?

Used tire dumping is regulated by the Code of Iowa. Tire dumping is not allowed on private property without a permit. Tires are the best potential breeding sites for mosquitoes, and should always be disposed of properly.

If you notice tire dumping on your neighbor's property, please talk to him or her and suggest removal before contacting the health department. Listed below are some area removal services and sources of advice for tire disposal. If you are still concerned about tires on your neighbor's property, contact Johnson County Public Health (319) 356-6040.

Waste Tire Managment - Disposal Options
Johnson County Recycling and Waste Reduction Guide Adobe Document

bullet What do I do if my neighbor rents or leases the property I am concerned about?

Talk to the property occupant first. Communicate your concern about standing water in his or her yard and how changing the water 2-3 times a week can prevent mosquito breeding.  It may be helpful to refer them to this website, or one of the government sites listed under "LINKS" on the mainpage. 

If the occupant states the problem is due to the property owner's neglect, contact the property owner and inform him or her of the situation. You may contact Johnson County Public Health (319) 356-6040, but the health department is limited to providing information unless there is a significant health threat.