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N.C. (WBTV) – A mosquito sample collected in Mecklenburg County tested positive for West Nile virus, according to the county health department
The NC State Laboratory of Public Health tested a pool of mosquitos collected in Mecklenburg County on July 14. Those mosquitos tested positive for West Nile virus, the county health department reported on July 20
Officials said that “no human cases have been identified.”
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West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne illness and the number one cause of diseases spread by mosquitos in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC
In early July, federal health officials reported that over 23 states have reported finding West Nile Virus — the most in 10 years
Most people who are infected have no symptoms, while a small number of people experience mild flu-like symptoms such as headaches, body aches, joint pain and more
In severe cases, the virus can cause damage to the central nervous system
Adults over the age of 60 and people with underlying medical conditions or weakened immune systems face the highest risk of complications, the Associated Press reported
There are no vaccines for humans and no medications to cure the West Nile virus once a person is infected by a mosquito, officials said. However, people can take steps to prevent exposure during outside activities
Mecklenburg County Public Health encouraged local residents to take the following steps:
- Using EPA-registered mosquito repellant and applying according to instructions.
- Emptying standing water from flowerpots, gutters, buckets, pool covers, birdbaths and more at least once a week.
- Installing or repairing screens on windows and doors.
- Wearing long sleeves and pants at dusk or dawn, or staying indoors during the hours.
“Each year, about 2,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with West Nile, but this number is an underestimate as most people do not develop symptoms or attribute mild symptoms to other causes‚” according to the CDC’s website
If you or a loved one might have West Nile virus, you can talk to your healthcare provider to get tested
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