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West Nile Virus Found In Washington County

Last updated on Friday, September 9, 2016

(WASHINGTON CO.) - Chris Boling of the Washington County Health Department says West Nile has been found in the county.

Once a year mosquitoes from a pond in the central area of the county have tested positive for the West Nile virus.

Health Officials say 70 to 80 percent of people who become infected experience no symptoms and only one in five develop fever, flu-like symptoms and rash.

Less than one percent will develop the serious neurological illness. Most tend to be elderly. The more severe symptoms include headaches, high fever, disorientation and neck stiffness.

There are no medications to treat or vaccines to prevent the virus, but Scott said people should protect themselves with either over the counter bug sprays with Deet or eucalyptus oil, along with wearing clothing that covers the skin.

Make sure screen over windows and doors are sealed so mosquitoes can't get into the home and invest in a cover for strollers to keep them away from children on walks.

For more information, visit www.CDC.gov/westnile/index.html.

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