Mosquito samples test positive for West Nile virus

The Harrison County Health Department has been notified by the Ohio Department of Health that three mosquito samples collected July 22 and 23 tested positive for West Nile virus.

The samples were collected from traps on Scio Rumley Road and along the Conotton Creek Trail behind the former Jewett school lot. No human cases have been reported in Harrison County. West Nile virus is most commonly spread to people through the bite of an infected mosquito.

While many people infected do not experience symptoms, others may develop fever, headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea or rash. Severe illness can occur, particularly in older adults and those with weakened immune systems.

Health officials urge residents and visitors to take steps to prevent mosquito bites, including using EPA-registered repellents, wearing long sleeves and pants in light colors, treating clothing with permethrin or buying pre-treated gear, avoiding outdoor activities at dawn and dusk, and using mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in unscreened areas.

To reduce mosquito populations, the health department will soon provide free mosquito dunks to the public. These small tablets are placed in standing water, where they release a naturally occurring bacterium, Bti, that kills mosquito larvae but is safe for humans, pets, birds, bees and other beneficial insects. Each dunk can treat up to 100 square feet of water for up to 30 days. Common uses include birdbaths, rain barrels, roof gutters, unused swimming pools, water gardens and old tires. An announcement will be posted on the health department’s website and social media once dunks are available. They can also be purchased at most home and garden retailers.

Residents with questions or symptoms are encouraged to contact their primary care provider. For more information, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s West Nile virus webpage or the Harrison County Health Department’s mosquito surveillance information. The department’s Environmental Health Division can be reached at 740-942-2616.