Third mosquito sample in Butler County tests positive for West Nile Virus
A third mosquito sample has tested positive for West Nile Virus in Butler County, but no human cases have been reported, the Mercer County Conservation District reported Tuesday, Aug. 26.
The conservation district said the Franklin Township positive sample was the third detected this year in the county.
“Additional monitoring will be done in the area where these mosquito samples were collected and appropriate control work will be conducted, depending on the number and types of mosquitoes that are found,” a news release from the Mercer County Conservation District said.
This is the second positive sample taken from the Prospect area. The first positive test result was reported in July.
Additionally, earlier this month, another sample collected in Zelienople was positive for the virus.
The best way to reduce the risk of West Nile Virus is to prevent mosquito bites, the conservation district said.
Prevent mosquito bites with the following tips:
· Insect repellants with DEET can be applied as directed to exposed skin and clothing.
· Stay indoors at dawn, dusk, and early evening when mosquitoes are most active. If you must go outdoors, wear a long-sleeved shirt and long pants.
· Make sure window and door screens are bug tight.
· Mosquitoes are repelled by high winds, so electric fans may provide some relief at outdoor events.
Source: CDC
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Health, about 80% of people do not develop symptoms, but those who do may experience fever, body aches, nausea, vomiting and rashes. People over 60 years old or those with certain medical conditions may also be more susceptible to illness.
About 1 in 150 people will develop severe illness with symptoms including blindness, disorientation, coma, convulsions, headache, high fever, muscle weakness, neck stiffness, numbness, paralysis, stupor and tremors.
Residents and businesses in Franklin Township should eliminate the possibly for mosquito breeding habitats by eliminating standing water, wearing long sleeves and using insect repellent, the district advised.
“All businesses and residents should reduce mosquito breeding habitat by eliminating standing water, such as bird baths, discarded tires, or any other containers capable of retaining standing water,” the news release said.
Reduce the number of mosquitoes around homes and neighborhoods by:
· Getting rid of standing water, where mosquitoes lay their eggs.
· Dispose of any refuse that can hold water—such as tin cans, containers and used tires.
· Control products such as mosquito dunks can be obtained from garden centers.
· Drill holes in the bottoms of recycling containers and check uncovered junk piles.
· Clean clogged roof gutters every year. Check storm drains, leaky faucets, and window wells.
· Empty accumulated water from wheelbarrows, boats, cargo trailers, toys, and ceramic pots. If possible, turn them over when not using them.
· Do not allow water to stagnate in birdbaths, ornamental pools, water gardens and swimming areas.
Source: CDC