ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, Ind. (WNDU) – The St. Joseph County Health Department is warning the public about the increased risk of human infection with West Nile Virus.
The health department said in June that the virus had been detected in a mosquito swarm in northern German Township. Since then, 37 more positive mosquito swarms have been identified in the county, with more expected.
As a result, health officials have issued a public health advisory urging St. Joseph County residents to be vigilant about the threat of West Nile virus in the area. While there have been no reported human cases in the county since October 2021, other parts of Indiana have recorded three human cases this year.
The health department recommends taking the following precautions to protect you and your family from mosquitoes:
• If possible, avoid being outdoors during times when mosquitoes are most likely to bite (dusk to dawn).
• Apply an EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, lemon eucalyptus oil, or paramethandiol to clothing and exposed skin.
• In wooded areas and other areas where mosquitoes are particularly active, cover exposed skin by wearing a hat, long sleeves and long pants.
• If you are camping or spending an extended period outdoors, apply 0.5% permethrin to clothing and outdoor gear.
• Ensure all windows and doors have screens installed and that all screens are in good condition.
• Reduce mosquito breeding on and around your property.
Signs and symptoms of West Nile virus usually appear within 2 to 14 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. These symptoms include headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and rash.
If you think you may have been exposed to West Nile virus, contact your health care provider. Most people who have the virus recover fully, but some are left with persistent fatigue and weakness.
The health department said when a public health threat is detected, they take measures such as mosquito control and spraying insecticides. Click here for more information or to sign up for insecticide spray alerts.
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