>> RELATED: Sample of mosquitoes in Clark County test positive for West Nile Virus
CCCHD is also distributing fliers in the affected area and misting it with Duet to reduce the adult mosquito population. Duet is safe for pets and people, but residents can opt out by calling 937-390-5600 or emailing environmental@ccchd.com.
West Nile Virus can lead to severe fever, inflammation of the brain and meningitis. It is typically spread by infected mosquitoes, which get the virus from feeding on infected birds. Mosquitoes spread West Nile Virus to humans and other animals when they bite.
About 80% of those infected with the virus do not show symptoms, according to CCCHD.
Those who develop symptoms commonly do so between three to 14 days after they’re bitten.
>> How to avoid West Nile virus in Clark County
About one in 150 infected with West Nile Virus develop severe symptoms, such as high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss numbness and paralysis. Symptoms can last several weeks and the neurological effects can be permanent.
Up to 20% of people infected will have milder symptoms, including fever, headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting and even swollen lymph glans or a rash on the chest, stomach and back. Symptoms can last for a few days or up to several weeks.
Treatment for West Nile Virus is based off a person’s symptoms.
The best way to prevent West Nile Virus is to wear repellents on exposed skin and wear long sleeves and pants.
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When traveling, check ahead of time for travel advisories and bring an EPA-approved mosquito repellent, as well as long sleeve shirts and pants.
Get rid of mosquito breeding sites by emptying or treating any standing water on your property. Check that screens on doors and windows don’t have any holes or rips. Use air conditioning instead of opening windows if possible.
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