West Nile Virus Detected in Additional Mosquitoes in Union County

IMBLER – (Release from the Oregon Health Authority) West Nile virus, which is spread by mosquitoes, has been detected in mosquitoes at two additional testing sites in Union County, Ore. This makes three positive tests in three different parts of Imbler.

Health officials are advising people in Union County to take precautions against mosquitoes to avoid the risk of infection, including preventing mosquito bites. West Nile virus is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most infected people will show little or no signs of disease.

Union County Vector Control offers these tips for protecting yourself against mosquitoes:

• Eliminate sources of standing water that are a breeding ground for mosquitoes, including watering troughs, bird baths, ornamental ponds, buckets, wading and swimming pools not in use, and old tires.
• When engaged in outdoor activities at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active, protect yourself by using mosquito repellants containing DEET, oil of lemon eucalyptus or Picaridin, and follow the directions on the container.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants in mosquito-infested areas.
• Make sure screen doors and windows are in good repair and fit tightly.

Additional information about West Nile virus:

Oregon Health Authority website:

http://public.health.oregon.gov/DiseasesConditions/DiseasesAZ/WestNileVirus/Pages/survey.aspx

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/index.htm

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Elkhorn Media Group