[ad_1]
STERLING – Sterling's mosquitoes have been tested positive for West Nile virus, the Whiteside County Health Department said Tuesday in a press release.
Lots of mosquitoes collected this week near the western end of Sterling City have revealed the presence of West Nile virus, said Jeff Deets, director of environmental health for the Whiteside County Health Department.
"The generally cooler and wetter spring and summer months have probably attributed this finding later than usual to WNV in recent years in Whiteside County," he said. "However, it should be remembered that West Nile virus disease is still a threat and will remain so until the first frost."
Mosquitoes transmit the virus after being fed an infected bird. About one in five people develop West Nile virus, usually a mild case that causes fever, headache and body aches. In rare cases, encephalitis, meningitis and death are possible.
Those who are outside between twilight and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active, should wear shoes, socks, pants and long-sleeved shirts, and apply insect repellents including DEET, picaridin or lemon eucalyptus oil on exposed skin. Check with a doctor before using repellents on infants, however.
In addition, ensure that doors and windows are equipped with mosquito nets and eliminate all sources of stagnant water where mosquitoes breed.
[ad_2]
Source link