The Marion County Public Health Department reports the first mosquitoes of the season found carrying West Nile virus. The Mosquito Control program checks surveillance traps around Marion County each day to monitor the local mosquito population and test for West Nile virus.
When mosquitoes from a trap test positive for West Nile virus, Mosquito Control increases its prevention efforts during daytime and evening hours in the area where the trap is located.
No human cases of the virus have been reported so far this year in Marion County.
Most people who become infected with West Nile virus do not develop any symptoms, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. People with certain medical conditions, such as cancer, diabetes and kidney disease are at greater risk experiencing symptoms which include headache, body aches, joint pains or rash. Less than one percent of people who are infected with West Nile virus will develop a serious neurological illness such as encephalitis or meningitis.
The Marion County Public Health Department reminds everyone to stay protected from mosquito bites by following the Four D’s of Mosquito Control:
- DUSK – Stay indoors from dusk until dawn. If you do spend time outdoors….
- DRESS – Wear long sleeves and long pants when outside during these times.
- DEET – Use insect repellent containing DEET.
- DRAINAGE – Remove all standing water outside the home.
“Even a small amount of standing water outside is a potential breeding ground for mosquitoes,” said Matt Sinsko, coordinator of Mosquito Control at the Marion County Public Health Department. ”We encourage residents to empty water from containers of any size and flush out bird baths every week. Check for old tires, clogged gutters, small recreational pools, and poorly operating septic systems.”
For questions about mosquito prevention, please call the Marion County Public Health Department’s Mosquito Control program at 317-221-7440.
