MARION COUNTY — The Marion County Public Health Department reported the first mosquitoes of the season to test positive for West Nile virus.
According to MCHPD, mosquitoes that carry the virus are found in Marion County each year. West Nile virus is spread to people through the bite of an infected mosquito.
Officials say most people who become infected with the virus do not develop any symptoms. Some might develop a fever, headache, body aches or joint pains.
People with certain medical conditions, such as cancer, diabetes and kidney disease, and those over 60-years-old, are at a greater risk for experiencing symptoms.
MCPHD says there are ways to take steps to reduce the mosquito population and protect against bites.
The best way to prevent mosquito bites is by using repellent containing DEET or other EPA-registered repellents, and wearing loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and pants.
Mosquitoes lay eggs on or near water because larvae need water to survive, so residents can help reduce the mosquito population by looking for areas of standing water around the outside of their home.
“Mosquitoes need just a small amount of water for breeding, so please take a few minutes to walk around your yard or property,” Matt Sinsko, coordinator of Mosquito Control at MCPHD, said. “Emptying water from containers of any size and flushing out bird baths every week helps to control the mosquito population and reduce the chance for bites. Also, check for old tires, clogged gutters, small recreational pools and poorly operating septic systems.”
The health department’s Mosquito Control program collects mosquitoes from traps placed in areas around the country to monitor the population and tests them for the virus.
Information about mosquito prevention efforts in Marion County is available by calling MCPHD’s Mosquito Control program at 317-221-7440.
