Greene County residents warned of West Nile Virus

According to Greene County Health Department Environmental Health Specialist Mark Miller, a pool of mosquitoes in the county has tested positive for West Nile Virus.

Residents are urged to protect themselves and to avoid areas where mosquitoes are prevalent.

At this time there are 69 counties in Indiana that have tested positive for West Nile Virus. The following information is provided to guard residents of possible exposure:

West Nile virus is a virus that is spread by mosquitoes. This virus may cause severe illness in people. Most people who get West Nile virus will have no signs or mild illness. A few individuals will have a more severe form of the disease; swelling of the brain or the tissues that cover the brain and spinal cord. Signs may be high fever, headache, neck stiffness, muscle weakness, and being confused. Mosquitoes spread the disease to humans by biting a bird with the virus, and then biting a human. Humans that are bitten by a mosquito with the virus may show signs three to 15 days after being bitten.

Anyone who gets a mosquito bite is at risk of getting West Nile fever; people over 50 years of age have the highest risk of getting severe disease. West Nile virus cannot be treated but care can be given to people with severe illness.

Mosquitoes lay eggs in still water, which hatch in seven to 10 days. If standing water is eliminated weekly, many mosquitoes will be kept from breeding in the first place.

Indiana State Department of Health offers these tips to prevent against the virus and prevent its spread:

• Remove standing water in ponds, ditches, clogged rain gutters, flower pots, plant saucers, puddles, buckets, garden equipment and cans.

• Repair failing septic systems

• Check for items that might hold water including barbecues, toys, pool covers, tarps, plastic sheeting, boats, canoes and trash.

• Disposal of old tires.

• Clean clogged roof gutters.

• Avoid mosquitoes by staying indoors at dawn and dusk when the bugs are most active.

• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants while outdoors.

• Apply insect repellent that contains DEET. Use only 10 percent DEET on children, and after applying, make sure everyone washes their hands. DEET should not be used on infants under six months. Follow directions carefully.

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