West Nile Virus found in Delaware County

DELAWARE COUNTY, Ind. - The Indiana Department of Health has confirmed that the West Nile Virus has been found in Delaware County.




According to the Delaware County Health Department, the virus was found in mosquitoes that were trapped during routine annual surveillance.




WNV is usually transmitted to humans by mosquitoes that have bitten an infected bird.




Symptoms normally show up within 15 days of the bite.




Some common symptoms include:

• Fever





• Headache





• Body aches





• Swollen lymph glands





• Rash

In some cases, individuals can develop more severe symptoms and very rarely, they could die. Those who are over the age of 50 are at the greatest risk for serious illness.




Since WNV is transmitted through mosquitoes, the best way to avoid the spread of the virus is to eliminate or avoid areas where mosquitoes lay eggs, which are commonly found in standing water.




Here are some helpful tips from IDOH and DCHD on what you can do to minimize the risk of WNV.

• Remove standing water in ponds, ditches, clogged rain gutters, flower pots, plant saucers, puddles, buckets, garden equipment and cans.





• Check for items that might hold water, including barbecues, toys, pool covers, tarps, plastic sheeting, boats, canoes, tires and trash.





• Avoid mosquitoes by staying indoors at dawn and dusk when the bugs are most active.





• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants while outdoors.





• Apply insect repellent that contains DEET. Use only 10% DEET or less on children, and make sure everyone washes their hands well so that they do not get any repellent in their eyes or mouth. Follow directions carefully. For those looking for alternative repellents, products containing picaridin and/or various natural oils such as cedar and peppermint are reported by some to be effective as well.





• Frequently replace the water in pet bowls.





• Flush ornamental fountains and birdbaths periodically.





• Aerate ornamental pools, or stock them with predatory fish.

via: https://fox59.com/news/west-nile-virus-found-in-delaware-county/