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West Nile Virus Alert in Erie County

July 24, 2018
About West Nile Virus in Erie County

Mosquito Pool in City of Erie Tests Positive

Erie County Health Department announced that the second mosquito pool  test this year turned up positive for the virus in Erie County. The West Nile Virus was found in another pool collected in Harborcreek Township on June 18, the Health Department said.

No human cases have been reported in the county.

The Health Department said additional monitoring will be done in the area where the mosquito pools was collected. Control work will be done depending on the number and types of mosquitoes that are found.

Certain species of mosquitoes carry the West Nile Virus, which can cause inflammation of the brain. While anyone can get the virus, older adults and people with compromised immune systems have the highest risk of developing severe illness because their bodies have difficulty fighting off the disease

You can reduce the number of mosquitoes around your home and neighborhood by eliminating standing water.  It is important that seniors and those with compromised immune systems stay indoors at dawn, dusk, and in the early evening when mosquitoes are most active. If you must go outdoors, wear a long-sleeved shirt and long pants.  Insect repellents with Deet, when applied (sparingly to seniors!) to exposed skin, deter mosquitoes from biting. Spray thin clothing with repellent since mosquitoes can bite through it. Be sure to follow all directions on product labels.

Learn how BrightStar Care of Erie helps support seniors in our community - CLICK HERE.

http://www.erienewsnow.com/story/38588862/mosquito-pool-in-harborcreek-township-tests-positive-for-west-nile-virus