The West Nile virus is carried by mosquitoes after biting infected birds.
Advertisement
– Avoid being out at dusk and dawn.
In announcing the first diagnosed West Nile case, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment cited similar uncertainty, while urging people to take certain safety precautions.
Ohio Medical Director Dr. Mary DiOrio said while mosquitoes are less plentiful than the West Nile virus outbreak years of 2002 and 2012, the little biters are making their presence known.
Heavy rains in the Toledo area and across the state have caused standing water in many areas and mosquitoes breed and multiply in such water.
Last year, Nassau had four reported human cases of West Nile and no deaths, with Suffolk reporting one case and no deaths. Most people who get the virus never show symptoms, but some people do suffer from headaches, fever and body aches.
“I think people should continue to enjoy the outdoors and go camping, but just have those resources when they do it”, Anthony said. Clothing should be light-colored and made of tightly woven materials.
Most people infected with WNV exhibit no clinical symptoms, but approximately 20 percent of cases result in mild or serious illness.
The folks at the state health department recommend wearing EPA-registered mosquito repellant when you venture outside, and taking time to read the instructions. Keep your screens repaired. Reduce the amount of standing water by draining and/or removing. Clear debris from ditches; cut small channels to help pooling water drain; and fill holes and tire ruts with dirt.
· Turn over plastic wading pools and wheelbarrows when not in use.
Advertisement
McCarley said township trustees approach the health department and ask to have certain roads in their areas sprayed.
