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West Nile Found In Knox, Daviess, Martin, Monroe And Sullivan Counties

Last updated on Saturday, August 17, 2013

(UNDATED) - State Department of Health officials say that Daviess, Knox, Martin, Monroe and Sullivan Counties are among the thirty-five Hoosier counties where the West Nike Virus has been detected in mosquitoes.

While only one human case of the disease has been reported in Indiana, so far this year, State Health Officials encourage Hoosiers to take the following steps to protect themselves.

· Avoid places where mosquitoes are biting;
· Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaradin or oil of lemon eucalyptus to clothes and exposed skin;
· Install or repair screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out of the home;
· and, when possible, wear pants and long sleeves, especially if walking in wooded or marshy areas.

West Nile virus can cause West Nile fever, a mild form of the illness, which can include fever, headache, body aches, swollen lymph glands or a rash. Some individuals will develop a more severe form of the disease with encephalitis or meningitis.

Hoosiers are asked to reduce potential mosquito breeding grounds :
· Discard old tires, tin cans, ceramic pots or anything else that can hold water;
· Repair septic systems;
· Drill holes in the bottom of outdoor recycling containers;
· Keep grass mowed and shrubbery trimmed;
· Clean clogged roof gutters,
· Flush ornamental fountains and birdbaths periodically; and,
· Put a fountain in ornamental pools, or stock them with predatory fish.

Individuals who think they may have West Nile virus should see their health care provider.

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