Friday, August 26, 2011

AUGUSTA, Ga. -- The Department of Public Health released information today on the appearance of the West Nile Virus in Richmond County.

According to the new release, the Richmond County Mosquito Control Division confirmed that two horses have been infected with the West Nile Virus. Typically, horses require two inoculations to prevent the disease, but reports indicate these two horses only received one before they became ill.

In South Carolina, there has only been one recorded case of the virus, which happened in Orangeburg County.

The West Nile Virus is caused by a bite from an infected mosquito carrying the virus. Not everyone who gets bitten by an infected mosquito will get this virus. Symptoms in humans are usually mild and may include fever, headaches, swollen glands and /or rash.

"Although most people will not become sick, people are encouraged to take precautions when outdoors," said Fred Koehle, Richmond County Mosquito Control operations manager in the news release.

Follow these tips:

• Use an EPA-registered repellent when outdoors any length of time.
  
• Wear protective clothing such as long sleeves and pants as temperatures permit.
  
• Avoid prolonged periods outside when mosquitoes are active. The hours from dusk to dawn are when mosquitoes are the most active.
  
• Do not allow containers outside to accumulate water. This can be a breeding ground for mosquito lava.
  
• Check windows or screen doors for holes to keep mosquitoes from entering your home.
  
• House gutters should be cleaned out.

If you or a family member thinks you have been exposed to WNV and or EEE disease, you should consult your health care provider for proper diagnosis.

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