The Southeast District Health Department says while this does not mean there are confirmed human cases, it does mean the virus is present in local mosquitoes, making it important to take precautions to reduce your risk of mosquito bites.
Many people infected with West Nile virus do not develop symptoms, while some experience symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting or diarrhea or a rash.
In rare cases the virus can cause serious illness affecting the brain and nervous system. Adults over 60 and those with certain medical conditions are at greater risk for severe illness.
You can help protect yourself from mosquitoes by used EPA-registered insect repellent; wearing long sleeves and pants when outdoors, especially at dawn and dusk and removing standing water around your home where mosquitoes can breed.
If you develop symptoms consistent with West Nile virus, contact your healthcare provider for an evaluation.
