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West Nile Virus SEASON TAKES OFF
Two Positive Pools Identified in Fulton county
August 20, 2009 - The Fulton County Department of Health and Wellness remind residents to continue to take caution to protect against West Nile Virus. Fulton reports that two pools of mosquitoes have tested positive for WNV. The identified pools are located in Central and South County.
“West Nile Virus season has officially begun for Fulton with the identification of these pools,” says Dr. Kim Turner, Interim health Director of the Fulton County Department of Health and Wellness. “We caution residents to take preventive measures to deter mosquito growth in their neighborhoods to protect against the virus.”
Symptoms of WNV include headache, fever, neck discomfort, muscle and joint aches, swollen lymph nodes and a rash. WNV can cause encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the spinal cord and lining of the brain). People with compromised immune systems or other underlying conditions are at greater risk for complications from the disease.
Dr. Turner adds, “During this time of year, transmission of this potentially serious illness from mosquitoes to humans is at its peak. West Nile Virus is serious but preventable if we take action to reduce our exposure to mosquito bites.” To reduce exposure to mosquitoes and to reduce the risk of West Nile Virus, the Fulton County Department of Health and Wellness recommends the following:
- Avoid outdoor activity at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active. Dress appropriately when outdoors for long periods of time or when mosquitoes are most active.
- Use insect repellant with an EPA-approved active ingredient such as DEET, Picaridin or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus. Always follow the directions on the package for safest and most effective use.
- Get rid of or treat standing water with larvicides. Areas with standing water are locations where mosquitoes will lay eggs. Dump out containers such as recycling bins, empty flower pots and other containers that may collect water.
For more information on West Nile Virus and prevention methods, call the Mosquito Hotline: 404-730-5296 or contact the Fulton County Department of Health and Wellness, Division of Environmental Health at (404) 730-1301 or link to our West Nile Virus page to read more about it.
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