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JEFFERSON COUNTY, Missouri – A recent collection of adult mosquitoes in five towns in Jefferson County has been tested positive for West Nile virus.
According to the Jefferson County Department of Health, the mosquitoes were collected on September 11 in Crystal City, De Soto, Hematite, Imperial and Kimmswick, and the surrounding area.
The virus is spread by the bite of a mosquito that has been fed to an infected bird.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 80% of infected people have no symptoms, but some develop flu-like symptoms that can last for weeks or even months. These symptoms include, but are not limited to: fever, headache, body aches, fatigue, nausea and rash.
The most severe cases of West Nile can be fatal.
Older people are more likely to become ill because their immune systems are often weaker.
To prevent the spread of West Nile virus, health officials want people to carry an insect repellent containing DEET and eliminate stagnant water sources that cause mosquitoes such as bird baths, gutters and bottoms. flower pots.
For more information on the prevention of mosquito-borne diseases or mosquito control, please contact the Jefferson County Department of Health's Mosquito Monitoring and Control Program at (636) 797-3737 ( item 150).
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