West Nile Virus detected in North Palm Beach County

The Palm Beach County Health Department says that West Nile virus has been detected on Jupiter's farms.

The early warning system of the sentinel chickens department revealed the disease. Residents are advised to take precautionary measures to avoid mosquito bites.

"We are constantly monitoring mosquito-borne diseases such as West Nile virus, chikungunya and St. Louis encephalitis. The confirmation of the presence of West Nile virus today is a good reminder for everyone to take the necessary preventive measures, "said Alina Alonso, director of the Department of Health of Palm Beach County.

People are advised to empty any stagnant water around the house or businesses, to ensure that windows and doors are properly shielded and to use air conditioning. When outdoors, use an insect repellent containing DEET or Picardin, wear a long-sleeved shirt and pants, especially at dusk and dawn.

According to a statement, "DOH-Palm Beach has herds of strategically placed sentinel chickens from Delray Beach to Jupiter and west to Belle Glade and Pahokee, which give weekly blood samples to the lab. but can carry the virus in their blood. "

According to the CDC, about 1 in 5 infected people develops fever and other symptoms. About 1 infected person out of 150 develops a serious illness, sometimes fatal.

There is no real off season for these pesky, flying and biting insects in South Florida.

But there are ways to slow them down.

"It's the biggest mosquito nursery and it's under everyone's house. It is the water of the city. If you look at the water, you can see it move with the mosquito larvae, "said George Melit of the Palm Beaches mosquito brigade. "An ounce of water can carry 1 to 300 mosquitoes in 1 to 3 days. He is very impatient to spill all your tarpaulins and your water.

Symptoms of West Nile include vomiting, nausea and rash.

It can also be dangerous for horses.

"Do not panic," says Dr. Eileen Gesoff.

She is a veterinarian in the equine field and serves the communities of Palm Beach County that are popular for horses, including Jupiter Farms.

"As long as their horses are vaccinated, there is not much to fear. The horse can still contract the virus but has the immunity to fight it, "she said.

This is why most horses are vaccinated twice a year. For young or older horses, they could be vaccinated three times.

"If they are not vaccinated, it may be more difficult to treat," she said.

The health department said the last reported human case in West Nile dates back to 2011.

The Palm Beach Mosquito Brigade can be reached at 561-744-1010.