Shelby County health officials say West Nile Virus contributed to the recent death of an 86-year-old Shelby County man.
The Shelby County Health Department is reminding residents that mosquito-borne illnesses remain a serious health concern, especially during warmer months when mosquitoes are most active. West Nile Virus is most often spread through the bite of an infected mosquito, and while many people may experience mild symptoms or no symptoms at all, the virus can cause severe illness in some cases.
Health officials are urging everyone to take steps to reduce the risk of mosquito bites. Residents should remove standing water from around their homes, including water in flowerpots, buckets, gutters, birdbaths, pet bowls, and outdoor toys. Mosquitoes can breed in even small amounts of stagnant water.
The Health Department also recommends checking window and door screens to make sure they are in good repair and fit tightly. When spending time outdoors, use an EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
Long sleeves and long pants are also recommended when outdoors, especially during peak mosquito activity hours from dawn to dusk.
Most people infected with West Nile Virus do not develop serious symptoms, but medical attention should be sought right away for warning signs such as sudden high fever, severe headache, stiff neck, confusion, weakness, or other neurological symptoms.
Shelby County health officials say prevention is the best protection. Take time to eliminate mosquito breeding areas and protect yourself and your family when outdoors.
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