VALDOSTA —
Three more mosquito pools have tested positive for West Nile virus recently in Valdosta, raising the number to eight for the region so far this year, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health.
“South Health District’s message remains the same as before encouraging South Georgians to take all precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses,” said Courtney Sheeley, a health district representative.
Tad Williams, the health district’s environmentalist, said officials do not release the locations of affected areas out of concern that people living in the region would panic while people living outside of the affected area may not take the alert seriously. It’s best if everyone in the region respond with caution and take steps to reduce risk and the mosquito population.
“Mosquito-borne illnesses are spread through the bite of an infected mosquito,” Dr. William Grow, district health director, said in a statement. “The more time someone is outdoors, the more time the person is at risk of being bitten by an infected mosquito; that is why we are encouraging South Georgians to take all precautions against mosquito bites.”
In addition to the West Nile virus being detected in the region’s mosquitoes, the South Health District has also reported several cases of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) confirmed in horses in South Georgia and one human case of West Nile virus in Albany.
“While most people infected with West Nile virus show no symptoms of the illness and pass it on their own, even healthy people have become severely ill for weeks when infected,” Grow said.
West Nile Virus symptoms include headache, fever, neck discomfort, muscle and joint aches, swollen lymph nodes and a rash that often develops three to 14 days following infection, according to the South Health District. Most at-risk are the elderly, people with low or compromised immune systems, and those with other health or medical concerns.
Grow said West Nile Virus has neither a vaccine nor a specific treatment. Severe cases need hospitalization where they receive intravenous fluids and respiratory treatment.
Prevention is the best remedy. Preventive measures include:
• Dispose of items containing water around your house.
• Use larvicide where standing water cannot be removed.
• Stock ornamental ponds with mosquito-eating fish.
• Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, etc.; keep them covered.
• Clean out clogged gutters.
• Eliminate weeds, tall grass, etc.
• Look for things such as tarps, etc., that create unexpected puddles of water.
• Use insect repellent containing DEET.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
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