The fourth mosquito transmitted case of West Nile Virus reported this year, Florida health officials are reporting a human West Nile virus (WNV) case. On Friday, the Florida Department of Health in Volusia County confirmed a case of WNV infection.
While none of the county’s sentinel chickens have tested positive for antibodies to the virus, this single case increases the concern for transmission to humans. Sentinel chickens are used to detect some mosquito-borne illnesses, such as West Nile virus. The birds do not develop disease symptoms but will test positive to antibodies if infected.
Volusia County Mosquito Control and DOH-Volusia continue surveillance and prevention efforts.
Earlier this year, human WNV cases were reported in Escambia County (October), Santa Rosa County (September) and Taylor County (October). In addition, one asymptomatic positive blood donor was reported from Escambia County (August).
DOH-Volusia recommends that residents and visitors should avoid being bitten by mosquitoes by taking basic precautions to help to limit exposure, including:
DRAIN standing water to stop mosquitoes from multiplying.
Drain water from garbage cans, house gutters, buckets, pool covers, coolers, toys, flower pots or any other containers where sprinkler or rain water has collected.
Discard old tires, drums, bottles, cans, pots and pans, broken appliances and other items that aren’t being used. Empty and clean birdbaths and pet’s water bowls at least once or twice a week.
Protect boats and vehicles from rain with tarps that don’t accumulate water.
Maintain swimming pools in good condition and appropriately chlorinated. Empty plastic swimming pools when not in use.
COVER skin with clothing or repellent.
Clothing – Wear shoes, socks, and long pants and long sleeves This type of protection may be necessary for people who must work in areas where mosquitoes are present.
Repellent – Apply mosquito repellent to bare skin and clothing.
Always use repellents according to the label. Repellents with DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol, and IR3535 are effective.
Use mosquito netting to protect children younger than 2 months old.
