The Clay County Health Department has confirmed the collection of a second West Nile virus (WNV) positive mosquito sample in Clay County this season. The sample was gathered on Tuesday in Flora, indicating that the virus is circulating locally and increasing the risk of infection for residents.
Health officials warn that the presence of WNV-positive mosquitoes means there is a heightened risk for human infection. West Nile virus is transmitted to people through the bite of infected mosquitoes, which become carriers after feeding on infected birds. The virus cannot be spread from person to person. Most people infected with West Nile virus do not show any symptoms.
However, some may experience fever, nausea, headache, and muscle aches lasting from a few days to several weeks. In rare cases, the infection can lead to severe illness, such as meningitis or encephalitis, and can even be fatal. Individuals over the age of 50 are at greater risk for severe complications.
The Clay County Health Department urges residents to follow the “Three R’s” to protect themselves:
Reduce exposure to mosquitoes.
Repel mosquitoes by using insect repellent.
Report areas where mosquitoes breed, such as standing water.
According to health officials, West Nile virus typically appears in mosquito populations two to six weeks before it is transmitted to humans, making surveillance and mosquito testing critical to public health efforts.
For more information about West Nile virus, contact the Clay County Health Department at 662-4406 or visit www.healthdept.org.
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