×

Protect against West Nile

When the topic of West Nile makes headlines in the Mid-Ohio Valley it isn’t cause for panic, but the threat of West Nile is a concern and we should take steps to protect ourselves from diseases spread by mosquitoes.

Thanks to a state grant, local health officials routinely capture and test mosquitoes for the disease. As many as 18 people have tested positive for the disease across the state, none here in southeast Ohio. A mosquito has tested positive, however.

Local officials say it’s possible for a healthy person to be sick with West Nile without realizing it. But the elderly, and people with compromised immune systems, can get much sicker. For them, the disease can be fatal. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in five people infected develop a fever, body aches, joint pain and vomiting, and sometimes fatigue and weakness can last for weeks. Extreme cases involve swelling around the brain or spinal cord.

Protecting ones self is simple to do. Use insect repellents and avoid being outside when mosquito activity is at its peak, such as early evening.

It’s also important to eliminate the number of mosquitoes in your yard or neighborhood. You can do that by eliminating standing water. Empty anything that could collect water such as flower pots, gutters and buckets.

There is no vaccine, so anyone who experiences the more severe symptoms should seek medical care.

Certainly, don’t over react to news about West Nile Virus, but don’t ignore it, either.

NEWSLETTER

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *

Starting at $4.15/week.

Subscribe Today