A week after officials discovered West Nile Virus in two birds in Rock Island County, The Scott County Health Department has announced the disease has shown up within it's boarders.
The Health Department was notified by the Medical Entomology Laboratory at Iowa State University that chickens from Scott County's sentinel flock have tested positive for West Nile Virus. They say this wasn't unexpected, despite this summer's hot, dry conditions, and low mosquito population.
According to the Health Department, late summer and early fall are the times when the majority of human cases of West Nile Virus typically are reported. The risk of contracting West Nile Virus remains high until the first frost when mosquito activity declines.
The Scott County Health Department is urging individuals to take steps to reduce the mosquito population and protect themselves when outside.
Some actions the Health Department suggests are; change the water in birdbaths, pet bowls, and wading pools at least twice a week; turning over plastic wading pools and buckets; properly disposing of old tires, tin cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots, and other water-holding containers. They also suggest checking for clogged rain gutters and cleaning them out. People with swimming pools are encouraged to chlorinate and drain the water from the pool cover.
The Health Department also offers tips on avoiding mosquito bites. Wear light colored clothing with long sleeves and long pants. Repair tears in window and door screens. Limit the time spent outdoors at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most likely to bite. Do not wear perfume or fragrances when outdoors. Apply insect repellents to exposed skin. Those containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus have been found to be effective. (Carefully read and follow all directions on the label before use). Do not use DEET on infants under two years of age, pregnant women, or children's bedding or clothing.
The Scott County Health Department, along with the State Hygienic Laboratory and Iowa State University, has participated in mosquito surveillance with the Iowa Department of Public Health for more than 30 years.
For more information, visit the Health Department's website at: www.scottcountyiowa.com/health
