AHS warns about West Nile due to wetter weather

However, it only takes one bite from an infected mosquito.

The Ventura County Environmental Health Division said the bird was found in mid June. The MSDH only reports laboratory-confirmed cases to the public.

For more information on the diseases and how you can prevent infection, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s websites on Zika and West Nile. “Because some mosquitoes carry West Nile virus, it’s important to avoid being bitten at all”. However, in some individuals, particularly the elderly, a much more serious disease affecting the brain tissue can develop.

In an email to the media Tuesday, the DOH wrote that sentinel chickens in Panama City Beach has tested positive for West Nile virus infections.

Symptoms, which include high fever, muscle aches, headaches, are only developed by 20 percent of cases.

Those who develop symptoms of severe WNV illness should seek medical attention immediately.

Nicholas Cornelius’ legs are paralyzed after the bite of the mosquito, which infected the man with rare West Nile Virus. Notwithstanding the fatigue and weakness, infected people are able to recover completely from the disease. The virus has been present in Oakland County since at least 2003. The weather can also be a significant factor in West Nile Virus outbreaks. As reported at KPCC, health officials believe that the recent upticks in West Nile cases could possibly be linked to record-breaking heat and the ongoing drought.

Mosquitoes like to breed in stagnant water, preferring weedy areas that provide cover.

Leaders continue to urge residents to wear mosquito repellant. DEET can be used safely on infants and children 2 months of age and older. Stay in places with air conditioning or that use window and door screens. Fix or replace screens with tears or holes.

Drain standing water around the house weekly since it is where mosquitoes lay eggs, including: tires, cans, flower pots, clogged rain gutters, rain barrels, toys and puddles. Dead wild birds should be reported to 877-968-2473.

The mosquito was found in an area that is two blocks away from Los Encinos Elementary.