Health agency says 2 Ohioans diagnosed with West Nile virus

State health officials said the cases were reported in Adams and Hinds counties.

“We are coming up on the greatest risk period for exposure”, said Dr. Scott Frank, director of the Shaker Heights Health Department.

ADH Public Information Officer Kerry Krell says that other states around Arkansas have also had reported cases.

The first detection of West Nile Virus in Kent County this summer doesn’t involve humans, the Health Department announced Thursday afternoon.

West Nile virus is, typically spread the humans through mosquito bites, is considered an endemic pathogen in the U.S. and several other countries. All forms of West Nile virus can be serious including fever, meningitis and encephalitis, and have potential for causing long-term illness and disability.

To keep bugs away from homes, the department recommends removing all standing water from a property, emptying buckets and dishes and clearing weeded areas.

According to the Glenn County Health and Human Services, these are the first cases in Glenn County in 2015. It’s an annual effort to help reduce the mosquito population which could carry the West Nile Virus.

Symptoms of West Nile virus may include headache, fever, fatigue, dizziness, weakness and confusion.

Dawn to dusk is when mosquito activity peaks, so limit outdoor activities during this time. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek medical attention from a healthcare provider.

DRAIN standing water around your house weekly. Wear shoes, socks, long trousers, and long sleeves.

Turn over plastic wading pools and wheelbarrows when not in use. Please follow instructions on product label.

An effective repellent will contain DEET, picaridin or lemon eucalyptus oil.

Door and window screens should be in good fix with no tears or holes.