A mosquito pool collected in Wood County has tested positive for West Nile virus. The sample of mosquitoes was collected on July 12 and sent for testing to the Ohio Department of Health. The positive test results were provided today.
Wood County Health Department contracts with Bowling Green State University through the Ohio EPA Mosquito Control Grant to conduct mosquito surveillance throughout the county and samples are regularly sent to ODH for testing.
Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds. Infected mosquitoes can then spread the virus to humans and other animals when they bite. No human cases of West Nile virus have been reported in Wood County or Ohio so far this year.
West Nile virus symptoms may include fever, fatigue, headache, disorientation and neck stiffness. Individuals who experience these symptoms should contact their healthcare provider.
“We expect to find mosquito pools that test positive for West Nile virus this time of year,” said Lana Glore, Wood County Health Department environmental health director. “The best way to combat West Nile virus is to prevent mosquito bites.”
Here are a few tips to help prevent mosquito bites:
• Keep mosquitoes outside by shutting doors and covering windows with screens.
• Make sure screens on windows and doors are free of holes or rips.
• Use EPA-approved insect repellents every time you are outdoors.
• Cover your skin with loose, light-colored long sleeve shirts and pants.
• Avoid being outside at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
• Get rid of mosquito breeding sites by emptying or treating any standing water on your property such as trash cans, bird baths, swimming pools and rain gutters.
Visit the health department website for additional information: https://woodcountyhealth.org/environmental-health/mosquitoes-and-ticks/
(The mission of Wood County Health Department is to prevent disease, promote healthy lifestyles and protect the health of everyone in Wood County. The Community Health Center provides comprehensive medical services for men, women and children. All patients are welcomed, including uninsured or underinsured clients, regardless of their ability to pay, and most third-party insurance is accepted. For more information, visit woodcountyhealth.org.)
