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Health officials warned the public against mosquito bites after West Nile virus was recently detected in Palm Beach County.
The state health department uses sentinel chickens to detect the presence of mosquito-borne diseases. West Nile was recently discovered in Delray Beach as well as in some communities in western Palm Beach County, the department said Wednesday.
The warning is a precaution: no human case of West Nile virus has been confirmed since 2011, said Alina Alonso, director of the Florida Department of Health in Palm Beach County.
The health department's warning is the latest in recent months, after we have already stated that West Nile was found in Pahokee, Belle Glade and Jupiter Farms.
The virus is usually transmitted to people through mosquito bites, although most people who are infected never show symptoms. About 1 in 5 infected people have fever with headache, body aches, vomiting, diarrhea, or other symptoms. But most recover completely. The virus can cause serious illness, such as meningitis or encephalitis, in one in 150 cases, according to the Federal Centers for Disease Control.
To protect against mosquito bites, the public should:
– Empty stagnant water around the house or shop as mosquitoes leave their eggs in small crevices filled with water.
– Make sure windows and doors are screened and in good condition and use air conditioning.
– Wear light-sleeved shirts with long sleeves, pants and socks on the outside, especially at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
– Use an insect repellent.
For more information, visit flhealthpalmbeach.org.
[email protected], 561-243-6527 or Twitter @JuanSunSentinel
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