(Warren County Ohio)--A West Nile Virus Test came back positive in Warren County West Nile virus (WNV) can cause potentially serious illness and is present in many counties in Ohio, including Warren County.
The Warren County Health District (WCHD) remains proactive in treating standing water in public areas with an environmentally safe larvicide and by trapping mosquitoes and having them tested by the Ohio Department of Health for the presence of West Nile virus.
As of August 22, 2017 this is the first positive mosquito pool reported to the WCHD. The sample in question was collected on June 27, 2017 in Turtlecreek Township.
The public can minimize the number of mosquitoes and reduce their risk of being bitten by following the tips below:
Make sure that doors and windows have tight-fitting screens.
Repair or replace all torn screens in your home.
Remove all discarded tires from your property.
Dispose of tin cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots, or similar water-holding containers.
Make sure roof gutters drain properly. Clean clogged gutters in the spring and fall.
Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs. Keep empty and coveredwhen not in use.
Drain water from pool covers.
Change the water in bird baths at least once a week.
Turn over plastic wading pools, and wheelbarrows, etc. when not in use.
Clean ditches of obstructions so they drain properly.
Eliminate any standing water that collects on your property.
Check trees for cavities that hold water and fill them with soil, gravel, or sand.
Remind or help neighbors to eliminate breeding sites on their properties.
Use insect repellent containing DEET at a concentration of at least 30% and follow the written directions.
For more information please visit the Warren County Health District website.