The West Nile Virus is once again in the news, with more than twice the number of cases reported this year than in previous years and reaching as far north as New York. The West Nile Virus is carried by mosquitos that first bite infected birds before transmitting the disease to other hosts. One particular species of mosquito, the Asian Tiger Mosquito, is notorious for carrying and transmitting West Nile Virus to humans.
The Asian Tiger Mosquito came to the United States in the 1980's on shipments of waste tires from Japan. Since that time, improperly stored waste tires that are left over to collect water have provided the optimal reproductive environment for the Asian Tiger Mosquito. In order to reduce the risk of infection by these vectors, citizens should make sure anything that will allow water to collect and stagnate, especially waste tires, are covered and protected from rainfall.
To assist citizens with the proper disposal of waste tires, the Solid Waste Department has partnered with the Kentucky Division of Waste Management to hold a free tire disposal event on October 25, 26 & 27 at the State Highway Garage on U.S. 27. Citizens may bring an unlimited amount of waste tires, on or off the rim, to this event for free disposal. This state/county sponsored amnesty is only held once every three years, so citizens are encouraged to take advantage of this service while it is available. For questions or further information about the tire amnesty event, citizens should call 859-339-3233.
Sincerely,
Chris Thomason
Solid Waste Coordinator
