The Youngstown City Health District has been notified by the Ohio Department of Health on July 15 that mosquitoes tested from one of their traps locations were confirmed positive for carrying West Nile Virus. The trap was located at Bailey-Johnson Park on the East Side of Youngstown and was sampled the week of June 18, 2019.
A bite from a mosquito carrying West Nile Virus can cause fever, aches, joint pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and rash; however, most – eight out of 10 people – will not develop any symptoms. Serious illness associated with West Nile Virus is rare, but can include central nervous system disorders including encephalitis and/or meningitis.
There is no vaccine or antiviral treatment for West Nile Virus, so the most effective way to avoid infection is to prevent the mosquito bite. Use mosquito repellent as directed on the package. Avoid outdoor activities from dusk to dawn when mosquitoes are most active. Wear long sleeves, long pants, and tuck clothing in. Reduce mosquito breeding sites around your home by removing sources of standing water, such as flower pots, buckets and barrels. Turn wading pools on their side when not in use. Change water in birdbaths and pet dishes frequently.
The Youngstown City Health District can treat stagnant water to prevent mosquitoes from reproducing. Youngstown residents can contact the Health District at 330-742-8287 to schedule an on-site consultation.
See your healthcare provider if you experience any of the above mentioned symptoms.
For more information about West Nile Virus, visit these helpful websites: CDC West Nile information and Ohio Department of Health – West Nile Virus.
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