Avoid West Nile Virus, health official gives tips
Thursday was World Mosquito Day. The pesky insects can cause itchy bites and carry viruses like West Nile.
A Marylander was diagnosed with the virus in Baltimore. According to officials, about eighty percent of people carrying West Nile won’t show any signs. About 20 percent will have flu-like symptoms and resolve the illness themselves.
Less than one percent of people develop a more severe illness from the virus that can cause neurological issues or even death.
Mosquito repellent and covering exposed areas of the body are clear ways to prevent bites. However, an official with the Worcester County Health Department says people often forget to dispose of standing water which can easily become breeding areas.
Kathleen Derr with the Worcester County Health Department says, “Your dog’s water bowl. Empty that out every day because mosquitoes can breed that quickly in a water bowl. Tire swings. Make sure they have holes in the bottom of them so they can drain. The little dishes under your plants, make sure you drain those.”
Late summer is the peak time for mosquitoes and the West Nile Virus. As August 20th, the West Nile Virus has not been detected on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. It has been reported in Delaware.
