West Nile identified in Fairfax County
By Staff
For the first time this year, Fairfax County Health Department tests have found mosquitoes carrying the West Nile virus. Two mosquito samples in the Mason District tested positive for the virus last week, according to a release from the health department.
“This is a reminder to residents that West Nile virus is still active in Fairfax County and now is the time for people to pay close attention to eliminating mosquito breeding areas around their neighborhoods,” Gloria Addo-Ayensu, the county's health director, said in a release. “Removing breeding sites by tipping and tossing standing water protects everyone and reduces the risk of infection for the whole community.”
Most people bitten by a mosquito carrying West Nile do not get sick. Those who become ill usually experience mild flu-like symptoms, but the virus can lead to serious conditions since as swelling of the brain or inflammation of the spinal cord.
The Health Department recommends the following tips for residents to reduce exposure to mosquitoes:
- When spending time outdoors, use insect repellents containing the active ingredient DEET (up to 30 percent), picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR-3535. Always use mosquito repellents according to label instructions.
- Wear long, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing.
- Turn over or remove containers in the yard where water collects, such as old tires, potted plant trays, buckets and toys.
- Fill in root-ball holes from downed trees or any depression that holds water for more than a week.
- Eliminate standing water on tarps, such as those that may be used to cover wood piles.
- Clean out birdbaths and wading pools once a week.
- Clean roof gutters.
- Manage black corrugated drain pipes.
For further information, call the Health Department’s Disease Carrying Insect Program at 703-246-2300, TTY 703-591-6435.