WEST NILE IDENTIFIED IN GRAND FORKS

West Nile virus has been identified in a pool of mosquitoes collected in Grand Forks. While testing rates for the virus remain low, residents are encouraged to take extra precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.

The most common mosquito that transmits West Nile virus is the Culex tarsalis. This mosquito is most active a few hours after sunset. To help reduce your risk of contracting West Nile virus, the following protective measures are recommended:

• Use insect repellent containing DEET.
• Limit outdoor activities between dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.
• Wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts when possible.
• Remove standing water from around homes (e.g. buckets, flower pots, old tires, wading pools and bird baths).

Grand Forks Mosquito Control works as if the virus were still present; therefore, significant changes in daily mosquito control operations are not expected.

Mosquitoes usually transmit West Nile virus. When a mosquito feeds on an infected bird, it can pick up the virus and pass it on to other, uninfected birds. Occasionally, infectious mosquitoes feed on mammals, including humans, and pass on the virus.

Most people infected with West Nile virus do not develop symptoms. However, some may develop mild illness one to two weeks after exposure, with symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, rash, and swollen lymph nodes. Less than one percent of infected people may develop serious illness, including encephalitis (brain inflammation). These people may experience headaches, high fever, neck stiffness, disorientation, seizures, and muscle weakness. The infection can be fatal in a small number of people who develop encephalitis, especially in older people. West Nile virus is not transmitted directly from birds to humans.

If you think you or a family member might have West Nile virus disease, talk to your healthcare provider.

For more information about West Nile Virus and the Grand Forks Mosquito Control Program, visit gfmosquito.com