Loup Basin Public Health Department has confirmed the district’s first positive mosquito pool in Garfield County. The insects, collected on July 12, and the pool tested positive for the West Nile Virus. No positive birds have been reported in the district to date. It is important to remember that the majority of human West Nile cases are usually reported in August and September. As of August 1 only two human cases of West Nile has been reported in Nebraska. Now is the time to protect yourself and your family from exposure to West Nile Virus.
West Nile virus is transmitted to humans after they are bitten by a mosquito infected with the virus. With our frequent rainfalls and spending more time outside, it is important to take precautions to reduce the risk of being bitten by mosquitoes. Limit your time outdoors, especially around dusk and dawn this is when mosquitoes are more active. If there is a need to go outdoors during these times wear lightweight long sleeves and pant. Also, be sure to wear DEET. DEET is a chemical which is effective in keeping mosquitoes away. Keep in mind the different concentrations of DEET and use the appropriate concentration for the time you will be outdoors. Here is a list of precautions to follow when using DEET:
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A product that combines DEET and a sunscreen is NOT recommended.
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Avoid spraying in enclosed areas; do not use DEET near food.
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Apply DEET sparingly on exposed skin; do not use under clothing.
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Do not use DEET over cuts, wounds or irritated skin. Wash treated skin with soap and water after returning indoors; wash treated clothing.
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Store out of reach of children, and read all instructions on the label before applying.
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Do not allow children to apply DEET themselves.
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Do not use DEET on the hands of young children; avoid applying to areas around the eyes and mouth.
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Do not apply directly on children. Apply to your own hands, and then put it on the child.
- If you think a child is having a reaction to a product containing DEET, wash the treated area immediately; contact your health care provider or local poison control center. 1-800-222-1222
Eliminate mosquito breeding sites on your property by:
- Empty wading pools when not in use and store indoors
- Get rid of old tires, cans, bottles, jars, buckets, drums, and other containers that are outdoors and may hold water. Standing water and clogged gutters can also breed mosquitoes.
- Repair leaky pipes, outside faucets, and move air conditioner hoses frequently.
- Eliminate puddles created by lawn watering or rainfall
- Change water and scrub vases holding flowers or cuttings twice a week.
Symptoms of West Nile virus vary from person to person. They include fever, headache, and body aches, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes swollen lymph glands or a skin rash on the chest, stomach and back. Symptoms typically last a few days. About one in 150 people will develop severe illness. These symptoms can include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness and paralysis. These symptoms may last several weeks, neurological effects may be permanent. See your local health care provider if you are experiencing these symptoms.
For more information, brochures or to schedule a presentation on West Nile virus contact
Loup Basin Public Health Department at 308.346.5795 or toll-free at 866.522.5795.
