September 13, 2010
Marshall County Health Officials announced that mosquitoes captured in Marshall County have tested positive for West Nile Virus. West Nile virus has been detected in mosquitoes in 32 counties across the state.
“As people are out enjoying the warm weather, I want them to be aware of this risk for infection with West Nile virus from mosquitoes, and I strongly recommend they take the simple precautions necessary to protect themselves,” said Dr. Holm, Marshall County Health Officer.
The virus usually results in a mild illness known as West Nile fever, which can cause fever, headache, body aches, swollen lymph glands, or a rash. However, a small number of individuals can develop a more severe form of the disease with encephalitis or meningitis and other neurological syndromes, including flaccid muscle paralysis.
“Mosquito-transmitted diseases commonly occur in August and September, when mosquitoes are more active because of hot weather conditions, so Hoosiers should take the proper precautions to prevent being bitten.”
“West Nile virus is potentially a very serious disease,” said Dr. Dr. Holm. “The good news is it is also preventable.”
Dr. Holm urges county residents to take the following protective steps when they are outdoors to help prevent west Nile and other mosquito borne disease:
Health department is also asking residents to take steps to rid their properties of potential mosquito breeding grounds:
For more information, visit the Indiana State Department of Health Web site at: www.statehealth.IN.gov and also please follow them on Twitter at: www.twitter.com/INPublicHealth.