LICKING COUNTY, Ohio -- The Licking County Health Department has found West Nile virus in mosquitoes in multiple traps collected in the West End of Newark.
The Licking County Health Department reminded residents to take precautions to protect themselves from mosquito-borne illnesses such as West Nile virus.
West Nile virus has been found in 55 pools of mosquitoes collected in Licking County from traps set by the health department this year -- the second highest number of WNV positive results in the state.
To avoid possible infection from mosquito bites:
- Avoid outdoor activities between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
- If you must be outdoors, be sure to wear long pants, long sleeve shirts, shoes and socks.
- Light colors are least attractive to mosquitoes.
- Use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin or lemon eucalyptus oil and follow the label directions; generally a concentration of 30 percent DEET for adults and 10 percent or less for children.
To eliminate mosquito breeding sites near your home:
- Remove all discarded tires and other water-holding containers such as tin cans and unused flower pots, from your property.
- Eliminate standing water from your property.
- Make sure all roof gutters are clean and drain properly.
- Clean and chlorinate pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs. Keep them empty when not in use, and drain water from pool covers.
- Change water in bird baths weekly.
Other mosquito-transmitted diseases in Ohio include Eastern Equine encephalitis, La Crosse encephalitis and St. Louis encephalitis.
People who have symptoms -- including high fever, headache, muscle aches, vomiting and loss of appetite -- two to 15 days after a mosquito bite should see their doctor and tell him or her about the mosquito bite.
For more information, contact the Licking County Health Department at 740-349-6535 or visit www.lickingcohealth.org.
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