West Nile Virus Is Detected In a Mosquito In Vandalia

(CTN News) – This week, a mosquito sample collected in Vandalia, Ohio tested positive for West Nile virus, according to Public Health Dayton- Montgomery County.

It is not uncommon for mosquitoes in the region to test positive for the virus at this time of year, according to officials with the public health agency. An additional mosquito carrying West Nile virus was found in Vandalia at the end of July.

However, Public Health staff were scheduled to spray the area surrounding the Vandalia Rec Center where the West Nile virus mosquito was collected on Tuesday this week. Adulticide mosquito spray (Duet) used by local health officials is safe for wildlife, humans, and pets, and does not harm bees.

Additionally, public health staff have distributed informational flyers regarding how to reduce mosquito populations and how to reduce the chance of being bitten by mosquitoes to homes in the area where the mosquito was trapped.

In the flyers, it is recommended that:

• It is recommended that you use an EPA-approved mosquito repellent containing DEET and follow the instructions on the label.

• When you are outdoors between dusk and dawn, mosquitoes are most active, so wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, shoes, and socks.

• By wearing light-colored clothing, mosquitoes will be less attracted to you.

• To prevent mosquitoes from entering your home, you should install or repair screens on your windows and doors.

• Make sure all roof gutters are clean and drain properly.

• Remove standing water from your yard, flower pots, buckets, and barrels.

• The water in pet dishes and bird baths should be changed on a weekly basis.

• Water should be drained from tire swings by drilling holes. When not in use, keep children’s wading pools on their sides.

In the continental United States, West Nile virus (WNV) is the leading mosquito-borne disease, and climate change increases the risk of human exposure to this virus.

The most common way in which it is spread to people is through the bite of an infected mosquito. The mosquito season, which begins in the summer and continues through the fall, is the peak time for WNV cases.

There is no vaccine or medication available to prevent or treat WNV in humans. Fortunately, most people who are infected with WNV do not experience any symptoms of illness.

About one in five individuals who are infected develop a fever and other symptoms. One out of every 150 individuals infected with this virus develops a serious, sometimes fatal illness.

The West Nile Virus has not been reported in Montgomery County in 2023, and there were three cases in 2022.

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