West Nile Virus

The Ohio Department of Health has reported positive results for West Nile Virus in birds and mosquitoes from Putnam County. West Nile Virus has been migrating east since first discovered in New York City during 1999. The virus has been found in birds and mosquitoes from Canada to Florida and as far west as Texas and North Dakota. More information can be found below and at:

West Nile Virus Information & Updates: 06WNVrelease.pdf

ODH CONFIRMS WEST NILE VIRUS IN MOSQUITOES IN CUYAHOGA COUNTY

Ohioans reminded to take steps to prevent mosquito bites

June 26, 2008 - COLUMBUS – The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) Zoonotic Disease Program today confirmed the first evidence of West Nile virus (WNV) in Ohio in 2008. The WNV-positive mosquitoes from Cuyahoga County were submitted by the Cleveland Department of Public Health.

To date, there have been no WNV-positive bird, horse or human cases but this testing affirms the need for Ohioans to take steps to protect themselves against mosquito bites and eliminate standing water to reduce their chances of WNV infection. Ohio has recorded human cases of WNV each year since 2002 when there were 441 cases. There were 108 in 2003, 12 in 2004, 61 in 2005, 48 in 2006 and 23 in 2007.

WNV is an unpredictable virus and it is not possible to predict how the 2008 season will unfold. ODH urges Ohioans to take the following personal protection measures to protect themselves and their loved ones against possible WNV infection:

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-sleeved shirts, shoes and socks. Light colors are least attractive to mosquitoes. Use insect repellent and follow the label directions.

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 properly draining. 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.

Ohio Department of Health Website on West Nile Virus: http://www.odh.ohio.gov/odhPrograms/idc/zoodis/wnv/wnv1.aspx

CDC's Website on West Nile Virus at: http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/index.htm

Because West Nile Virus can lead to serious illness, it is best to protect yourself from mosquito bites. Below is a list of protective measures and ways to reduce mosquito breeding.

Signs and symptoms of a mosquito borne infection are slight fever, body aches, headache, and sometimes skin rash or swollen lymph glands. A very small number of people will suffer from a severe infection that is marked by rapid onset of high fever, a severe headache, neck stiffness, nausea or vomiting, confusion, muscle weakness or paralysis, seizures, coma and rarely death. Persons over 50 years old are more vulnerable to West Nile Virus.

Protect Yourself from Mosquito Bites

	Wear light-colored, long-sleeved shirts or jackets, and long slacks
	Avoid mosquito-infested areas or stay indoors when mosquitoes are most active, during the early morning and evening hours.
	Put 16 mesh screens on all doors and windows and keep them in good repair.
	Consider the use of mosquito repellant. Sprays and lotions are the most commonly available. Use repellants sparingly and in the weakest concentration that does the job, especially on children. Read and follow all label directions on whatever product you choose.

Reduce Mosquito Breeding

Standing water is an ideal mosquito breeding ground. Mosquitoes will develop in any puddle that lasts for more than four days.

	Watch for shady areas where water collects – old tires, plastic containers, clogged roof gutters, swimming pool or hot tub covers, under swing sets, tarps covering cars or boats.
	Empty birdbaths and fill with fresh water at least once a week.
	Turn over plastic wading pools when not in use.
	Aerate ornamental pools or stock them with fish.
	Clean and chlorinate swimming pools that are not being used.