CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — Mosquito pools in Concord and Green Townships and the city of Chillicothe have tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV), the Ross County Health District announced. The confirmation was received by Director of Environmental Health Kelly Spindler and Health Commissioner Janelle McManis, marking the first positive results for WNV in Ross County mosquitoes this season. No human cases have been reported.
The presence of WNV in mosquitoes is not uncommon, but health officials are urging residents to take precautions to reduce the risk of mosquito bites and control the mosquito population. The Ross County Health District recommends the following measures:
- Dump out standing water around homes weekly to eliminate mosquito breeding sites.
- Dress protectively by wearing long pants and long sleeves, especially during dusk and dawn when mosquito activity peaks.
- Defend with repellent containing EPA-approved ingredients such as Picaridin, DEET, oil of lemon eucalyptus (or PMD), or IR3535.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), West Nile Virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. While 80% of infected individuals show no symptoms, about one in five may experience fever, headache, body aches, nausea, or a skin rash, with symptoms potentially lasting from days to months. Severe illness, which occurs in roughly one in 150 cases, is more likely in people over 60 or those with chronic health conditions. No vaccine or specific treatment exists for WNV.
The type of mosquito capable of spreading WNV is found throughout Ross County, though not all mosquitoes carry the virus. The Ross County Health District continues to monitor mosquito populations and urges residents to remain vigilant to prevent bites and reduce mosquito breeding grounds.