Ohio officials urge precautions against mosquitoes

Char Ahrens from Oneida County Public Health says while the disease has been in the Northwoods in prior years…

“We encourage individuals to follow the “four D’s” to protect themselves”, Joseph said.

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

The state also reported this week that it has its first case of the virus this year.

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Install or fix screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes outside. 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.

So far, trap counts across Garfield County – particularly in the west of the county, which historically has seen larger populations of mosquitoes – show slightly larger populations of the insect, including Culex tarsalis, Sheaffer said.

Unfortunately, the West Nile Virus has recently been found in other counties from Nebraska as well and a person has already been infected with it.

Larsen said that even if a problem area is on private property, code enforcement officers can still address the area – particularly if it involves standing water or un-drained swimming pools at a vacant home.

Persons at the highest risk for serious illness are those age 50 or over. Mosquitos breed more heavily in this type of floodwater.

They also told that stagnant water should not be allowed in pool covers, birdbaths, containers and flower pots etc. If you know of a swimming pool that is not being properly maintained, please contact your local mosquito and vector control agency. The districts use aircraft in rural locations and ground equipment for more precision spraying in urbanized areas. Californians are encouraged to report dead birds on the website or by calling toll-free 1-877-WNV-BIRD (968-2473).