STEUBEN COUNTY, IN (WTVB) – The Steuben County Health Department says mosquitos carrying the West Nile virus have been found in their county.
Officials said on Friday that a pool of mosquitoes they collected in Steuben County on June 27, 2024 has tested positive for the virus. So far, no human cases of West Nile virus have been reported in Steuben County.
They point out there are potentially 8 to 10 weeks of seasonal summer temperatures remaining and mosquitoes will remain active above 60 degrees, so the risk of mosquito bites is still widespread.
The possibility of a human contracting West Nile virus will persist until the first hard freeze takes place in this area.
Health officials recommend the following proactive measures:
➢ Avoid places where mosquitoes are biting;
➢ Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaradin or oil of lemon eucalyptus to clothes and exposed skin;
➢ Install or repair screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out of the home; and,
➢ When possible, wear pants and long sleeves, especially if walking in wooded or marshy areas.
West Nile virus can cause West Nile fever which can include fever, headache, body aches, swollen lymph glands or a rash.
Some individuals will develop a more severe form of the disease with encephalitis or meningitis and other severe syndromes, including flaccid muscle paralysis.
To reduce potential mosquito breeding grounds:
➢ Discard old tires, tin cans, ceramic pots or other containers that can hold water;
➢ Repair failed septic systems;
➢ Drill holes in the bottom of recycling containers left outdoors;
➢ Keep grass cut short and shrubbery trimmed;
➢ Clean clogged roof gutters, particularly if leaves tend to plug up the drains;
➢ Frequently replace the water in pet bowls;
➢ Flush ornamental fountains and birdbaths periodically; and,
➢ Aerate ornamental pools, or stock them with predatory fish.
Individuals should contact their primary care physician for additional questions or concerns related to West Nile Virus, including testing and treatment
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