A Mosquito Was Found With West Nile Virus In Clarksburg
So, our news Director Tom Conklin is in the studio with me this morning and he was doing the story about the mosquito in Clarksburg testing positive for the West Nile Virus, and what happens but a mosquito lands on my arm, ouch! talk about creepy timing.
If you haven't heard yet a mosquito carrying the West Nile virus was discovered near the Peter Cook Memorial Town Field in Clarksburg, but town officials plan to hold off on the use of insecticide spray for now.
The Berkshire Eagle reports that according to Town Administrator Carl McKinney, no dead birds have been found, and the discovery, so far, is fairly limited. The Berkshire Mosquito Control Project will continue its efforts to reduce the mosquito population in the area with the use of larvicide, according to Superintendent Chris Horton. West Nile is a virus most commonly spread to people by mosquito bites.
What is West Nile fever? It is a viral infection typically spread by mosquitoes. In about 75% of infections, people have few or no symptoms. About 20% of people develop a fever, headache, vomiting, or a rash. In less than 1% of people, encephalitis or meningitis occurs, with associated neck stiffness, confusion, or seizures. Recovery may take weeks to months. The risk of death among those in whom the nervous system is affected is about 10%. There is no vaccine.
Remove Mosquito Habitats, usually anything thing or anywhere that has standing water.
Eliminate standing water in rain gutters, old tires, buckets, plastic covers, toys, or any other container where mosquitoes can breed.
Empty and change the water in bird baths, fountains, wading pools, rain barrels, and potted plant trays at least once a week to destroy potential mosquito habitats.
Use Appropriate Pesticides
Control mosquito larvae using the appropriate methods for the habitat
Control adult mosquitoes using insecticides.
Use Structural Barriers
Cover all gaps in walls, doors, and windows to prevent mosquitoes from entering.
Make sure window and door screens are in good working order.
Completely cover baby carriers and beds with netting.
Avoid Getting Bitten
Wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks, is a good thing to do if you are out and about hiking etc.
Tuck shirts into pants and pants into socks to cover gaps in your clothing where mosquitoes can get to your skin.
Use EPA-registered mosquito repellents when necessary and follow label directions and precautions closely.
Use head nets, long sleeves and long pants if you venture into areas with high mosquito populations, such as salt marshes.
Replace your outdoor lights with yellow "bug" lights, which tend to attract fewer mosquitoes than ordinary lights. The yellow lights are not repellents, however.