Pa. (WKBN) — West Nile Virus has been detected in mosquito samples in Mercer, according to a press release from the Mercer County Conservation District
West Nile Virus is contracted by mosquito bites. While 80% of people don’t develop symptoms, some people can experience fever, body aches, nausea, vomiting and rash
Severe illness can happen at any age, but the district says some populations are at greater risk, including those over the age of 60, those with medical conditions such as cancer, diabetes, and kidney disease, and those who have received organ transplants
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The district said no human cases of West Nile Virus have been reported in Mercer County at this time
The district says it’s the first sample to test positive for the virus this year in the county and that additional monitoring will be conducted in the area depending on the number and types of mosquitoes found
Businesses and residents in Mercer are being advised to take extra precautions to avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes and attracting mosquitoes. The district is offering the following tips:
Insect repellents with DEET can be applied as directed to exposed skin and clothing
Stay indoors at dawn, dusk, and early evening when mosquitoes are most active. If you must go outdoors, wear a long-sleeved shirt and long pants
Make sure window and door screens are bug-tight
Mosquitoes are repelled by high winds, so electric fans may provide some relief at outdoor events
Get rid of standing water, where mosquitoes lay their eggs
Dispose of any refuse that can hold water, such as tin cans, containers and used tires
Control products such as mosquito dunks can be obtained from garden centers
Drill holes in the bottoms of recycling containers and check uncovered junk piles
Clean clogged roof gutters every year. Check storm drains, leaky faucets and window wells
Empty accumulated water from wheelbarrows, boats, cargo trailers, toys and ceramic pots. If possible, turn them over when not using them
Do not allow water to stagnate in birdbaths, ornamental pools, water gardens and swimming areas
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Anyone who thinks they may be infected should contact their health provider
More information about West Nile Virus can be found on the CDC’s website
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