HUNTINGTON, West Virginia. The Cabell-Huntington Health Department mosquito program has identified West Nile Virus (WNV) in mosquitoes in Cabell County. The health department’s mosquito surveillance team traps mosquitoes and submits them to the WV Office of Laboratory Services for viral testing. There are no reported human cases in Cabell County at this time. The health department will report to the public when viruses are detected to reduce human exposure. Any complaints of heavy mosquito activity are investigated.
Cabell-Huntington Health Department’s CEO and Health Officer, Dr. Michael Kilkenny states “West Nile Virus is frequently found in mosquitoes in Cabell County during the summer months. The disease in people is not common, but it can be severe. There is no human vaccine or specific treatment for West Nile infection so it’s important to lower the risk of being bitten by mosquitoes.”
While most individuals who have been exposed to WNV may not have any symptoms, in some cases, people may develop serious illnesses which can lead to hospitalization, and in rare instances, death. Fortunately, mosquito bites are largely avoidable.
The Cabell-Huntington Health Department is urging residents of Cabell County and the City of Huntington to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites that can potentially cause illness by following the “4 Ds”:
▪ Dress: Wear long sleeves and long pants when outdoors.
▪ Deter: Always use approved insect repellants when you go outdoors.
▪ Dusk: Avoid peak mosquito hours during the day, typically around dawn and dusk. ▪ Drain: Remove all standing water around your home.
Anyone who has symptoms that cause concern should contact their health care provider, especially if the symptoms are severe, such as, confusion, seizures, and fever with either a stiff neck or muscle weakness
If you need additional information, please contact 304-523-6483 or visit the Cabell-Huntington Heal
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