West Nile virus detected in Will County

Reato said the excessive rainfall in the area this year doesn’t necessarily mean more mosquitoes will test positive for West Nile virus.

West Nile virus has been confirmed in mosquitoes in Butler County.

This is the first positive test of the year in Pinellas County for a mosquito-borne virus. Most people infected with the virus will have no symptoms but about one in five people will develop a fever with other symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash, the state health department said.

In some cases, the virus causes serious neurological illnesses that can lead to health conditions or death.

CDPH recommends that individuals prevent exposure to mosquito bites and WNV by practicing the “Three Ds:”.

West Nile virus is commonly transmitted to people by mosquitoes, but only about 1 percent of infected people become seriously ill – possibly fatally ill, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The Florida Department of Health in Pinellas County continues to monitor sentinel chicken trends.

Limit outdoor activities during dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active. When using deet, be sure to read and follow label instructions.

The Tampa Bay Times reports workers were treating the breeding areas.

West Nile virus can be much less severe and most infected humans do not develop symptoms.

We could also remove standing water around the house, especially if we have seen birds drinking or bathing in it. The West Nile virus normally shows up around late August. It is possible that the drought has contributed to West Nile virus amplification by reducing sources of water for birds and mosquitoes.

Wear long-sleeved shirts, trousers and socks while outside. Keep your screens repaired.

Zenivex E4, the chemical used for local fogging operations, is an EPA-approved, reduced-risk insecticide, according to county vector control district manager Denise Bonilla, so it’s safe for residents to venture outside during the spraying.