ROSS COUNTY, Ohio — Four additional mosquito pools in Ross County have tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV), according to the Ohio Department of Health. The confirmation was relayed to Ross County Health District’s Director of Environmental Health, Kelly Spindler, and Health Commissioner Janelle McManis. Despite the positive tests, no human cases of West Nile Virus have been reported in the area.
In response to the findings, the Ross County Health District is taking proactive steps to protect the community. The district is making mosquito repellent spray and mosquito larvicide available to residents. Interested individuals can contact the Environmental Health Division of the Ross County Health District at (740) 775-1158 for more information.
Health officials emphasize that the detection of West Nile Virus in mosquitoes is not uncommon, and the public is urged to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites and reduce the mosquito population. The Ross County Health District recommends the following measures:
- Eliminate Standing Water: Regularly dump out standing water around homes to prevent mosquito breeding.
- Wear Protective Clothing: Whenever possible, wear long pants and long sleeves to minimize exposure to mosquitoes.
- Use CDC-Recommended Repellents: Use insect repellents containing Picaridin, DEET, oil of lemon eucalyptus (or PMD), or IR3535, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
West Nile Virus, transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes, presents varying levels of risk to individuals. Approximately 80% of those infected will not show any symptoms, while around one in five will experience symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, nausea, or skin rash. These symptoms can persist for several days to months.
However, one in 150 individuals infected with the virus may develop severe symptoms including convulsions, muscle weakness, neck stiffness, coma, paralysis, and in some cases, death. People over the age of 60 and those with preexisting health conditions are at a higher risk of experiencing severe illness.
It’s important to note that there is no vaccine for West Nile Virus, and specific treatment options are not available for the infection. While not all mosquito species carry the virus, the type of mosquito responsible for its transmission is prevalent throughout Ross County.
Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant, follow recommended precautions, and stay informed about West Nile Virus developments in their area.