West Nile detected in Leon County

Health officials are urging people to protect themselves from mosquito bites.

West Nile virus, which is transmitted by mosquitoes, has been detected in sentinel chickens in Leon County over the last two weeks.

There have been no human cases yet in our area, though there have been cases in other Florida counties.

Symptoms of West Nile include headache, fever, fatigue, dizziness, weakness and confusion.

In some cases, the virus can cause a fatal swelling of the brain.

Most infected people recover from infection, but it can be dangerous particularly for children and elderly people.

The best defense against the disease is to avoid getting bit in the first place.

Be especially careful at dawn and in the early evening when mosquitoes are most active.

Long pants and long sleeved shirts can help protect you, as can Mosquito repellants containing DEET.

Mosquitoes need standing water to breed, so you can make it harder on them by removing all sources of standing water from your property, including old tires.

Replace birdbath water often, and if you have a boat, make sure to check the tarp for water.

Cleaning gutters and drainage ditches and fixing leaking outdoor faucets can also remove prime mosquito breeding sites.

And remember, if you have any mosquito related concerns, call the Franklin County Mosquito control Department at 670- 8730.

http://www.oysterradio.com e-mail manager@oysterradio.com with comments