West Nile virus found in Jasper

Jasper — Two samples of mosquitoes have recently tested positive for West Nile virus in Jasper.

The disease is found annually in Dubois County and although it had been reported in nearby counties this year, had not been found in the county until recently.

The disease is spread through birds that are carriers. Mosquitoes then spread the disease to humans by biting a bird with the virus.

According to the Dubois County Health Department, following these simple steps can reduce exposure to mosquitoes and the disease; apply insect repellent containing DEET to clothes and exposed skin; wear light colored clothing; avoid wet, highly vegetative areas where mosquitoes live; and avoid being outdoors during prime mosquito biting times, dusk to dawn, when possible.

Some simple steps to prevent mosquitoes from breeding are as follows.

• Eliminate areas of standing water on your property

• Repair failing septic systems.

• Remove any containers that will hold water.

• Clean your clogged gutters.

• Keep grass cut short and shrubbery trimmed. Tall vegetation Is an excellent harborage area for mosquitoes.

• Keep swimming pools chlorinated and clean.

• The basic rule is; if water lasts more than four days mosquitoes can reproduce. Even a small bucket can produce up to a 1,000 mosquitoes in just a few days.

Humans that are bitten by a mosquito with the virus may show signs 3 to 15 days after being bitten.Some symptoms of West Nile Virus include:

• High fever

• Severe headache

• Stiff neck

• Muscle weakness or paralysis

• Nausea, vomiting

• Confusion

West Nile Virus can also infect our domestic animals. The virus is very serious and often fatal for horses. It is very important to contact your veterinarian to get your horse immunized if you haven’t.