By Chris Taylor / Jacque Day
Paducah, KY – Governor Steve Beshear has announced the formation of a special task force to combat a rising mosquito problem in flood-affected western Kentucky counties. Beshear says the pests pose a public health risk and have impeded recovery efforts. His task force includes members of the Energy, Environment and Transportation Cabinets. Regional Transportation Spokesman Keith Todd says he can attest to the need.
"I've been out in a couple of places, particularly up on the Trade Water River," Todd says. "I was out of the car maybe ten minutes and I made the mistake of leaving one of my windows rolled down and I got back in and I bet you there were 30 or 40 mosquitoes flying around in my car."
Todd says no formal plan has yet been drafted, but it may involve a rural spraying program. The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be an advisory group to the effort.