TULSA — The Tulsa Health Department says a sample of mosquitoes from a trap in Tulsa County has tested positive for West Nile virus.
No confirmed cases of West Nile virus have been confirmed in humans in Tulsa County so far this year. The months of July through October are typically the highest risk months for exposure in the state.
“There have been human cases of West Nile virus disease in Tulsa County before, and we haven’t had any West Nile virus-related deaths in the last three seasons,” said Meador. “It’s so important to take steps to prevent mosquitos in your own yard and protect your family from mosquito-borne illnesses.”
WNV is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito, which feeds on infected birds and transmits the virus when biting humans, horses and some other mammals.
Symptoms include sudden onset of fever, headache, dizziness and muscle weakness. Long-lasting complications can include migraine headaches, difficulty concentrating, extreme muscle weakness and tremors and paralysis of a limb.
Take the following precautions against mosquito bites:
- Dump and drain items such as buckets, cans, pool covers, flower pots, and tires from holding standing water so mosquitoes don’t have a place to breed.
- Use an insect repellent containing DEET or other CDC approved repellents on exposed skin and clothing when you go outdoors, particularly if you are outside between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are more likely to bite. (Insect repellent with permethrin should be used on clothing only.)
- Repair or install window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out of your home.
- Encourage your friends and neighbors to dump and drain and to use repellents.
- Clean leaves and debris from rain gutters regularly to ensure they are not clogged.
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