West Nile Virus in Northeast Ohio

Hello Northeast Ohio! We've seen an increase in mosquitoes testing positive for West Nile Virus, so let's review what it is, the symptoms, the areas it's affecting, and how to keep yourself safe!

What is West Nile Virus? 

According to Cleveland Clinic, "West Nile is a virus that spreads through mosquito bites. Most people who get infected don’t have symptoms. But about 1 in 5 people have a fever, headache, body aches and other flu-like symptoms. Rarely, West Nile virus infects your nervous system and causes serious brain or spinal cord inflammation (encephalitis or meningitis)." https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10939-west-nile-virus

So where in Northeast Ohio has West Nile Virus been found?

So far towns in Portage, Summit, Medina, Stark, Mahoning, and Trumbull counties have mosquito pools that have tested positive for the virus, which commonly comes from mosquitoes feeding on infected birds. There have been 358 infected mosquitoes tested from 22 Counties throughout Ohio, and one case of the infection reported in a person so far, according to the Ohio Department of Health. 

How can you protect yourself?

Well, there aren't any vaccines or medicines to prevent the virus, so pull out your bug spray, long sleeved clothing, and make sure that's bug sprayed too! https://www.cdc.gov/west-nile-virus/prevention/index.html

Additionally, mosquito torches and candles a well as bug zappers can be very beneficial in further protecting your space!