West Nile Press Release 9/6/22

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There has been a positive mosquito finding for West Nile virus in Garfield County. At this time, no positive human cases have been reported in the district. August and September are typically the months in which most human West Nile cases are reported.

West Nile virus symptoms include fever, headaches, body aches, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes swollen lymph glands or a skin rash on the chest, stomach, and back. Symptoms usually last a few days. Severe West Nile Symptoms include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness, and paralysis. Contact your medical provider if you experience these symptoms for a prolonged period of time.

Infected mosquitoes spread the West Nile virus to people after they bite them. Limiting your outdoor time, especially during the mornings and evenings when mosquitoes are most active, can reduce your chances of being bitten by mosquitoes. You can reduce mosquito bites by wearing lightweight long-sleeved shirts and pants. Use insect repellents containing DEET, IR3535, Oil of Eucalyptus, or Picaridin.

Some recommendations for using DEET are:

• Do not use a product that combines insect repellent and sunscreen.

• Read all instructions on the label before applying.

• Use the right concentration for the time you will be outdoors.

• Do not spray in enclosed areas; do not use DEET near food.

• Apply DEET on exposed skin; do not use under clothing.

• Do not use DEET over cuts, wounds or irritated skin.

• Wash skin with soap and water after returning indoors; wash treated clothing.

• Do not let children apply DEET.

• Do not use DEET on the hands of young children; do not apply it around the eyes and mouth.

• Do not apply directly on children. Apply to your own hands, and then put it on the child.

• If a person is having a reaction to a product containing DEET, wash the area immediately and contact your health care provider or a local poison control center. 1-800-222-1222