West Nile virus detected in Grand Forks

Close up a Mosquito sucking human blood_set B-4

(KNOX) – West Nile virus has been identified in a pool (group) of mosquitoes collected in Grand Forks. Although positive test rates for the virus remain low at this time, residents are encouraged to take extra precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.

The mosquito most common for transmitting West Nile virus is the Culex tarsalis. This mosquito is most active in the few hours after sunset. To help reduce your risk of getting West Nile virus, the following protective measures are recommended:

Use insect repellent that contains DEET.
Limit outdoor activities between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
Wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts when possible.
Eliminate standing water around homes (e.g., buckets, flowerpots, old tires, wading pools and birdbaths).

Grand Forks Mosquito Control operates as if the virus is always present and therefore major changes to the daily operations of mosquito control are not to be expected.

West Nile virus is generally transmitted by mosquitoes. When a mosquito feeds on an infected bird, it can pick up the virus and transmit it to other noninfected birds. Occasionally, infective mosquitoes will feed on mammals, including humans, and transmit the virus to them.

Most people infected with West Nile virus do not develop symptoms, however, some may develop mild illness one to two weeks after exposure with symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, skin rash and swollen lymph nodes. Less than one percent of infected people may develop a serious illness that includes encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). These persons might experience headache, high fever, neck stiffness, disorientation, convulsions and muscle weakness. Infection may prove fatal in a small number of those who develop encephalitis, especially among older individuals. West Nile virus is not transmitted directly from birds to humans.

If you think you or a family member might have West Nile virus disease, speak with your health care provider.