West Nile Virus On Rise In Sarasota County: FL Department Of Health

SARASOTA COUNTY, FL — A mosquito-borne illness advisory was issued in Sarasota County after an increase in West Nile virus activity in certain areas, according to a news release from the Florida Department of Health.

Sentinel chickens in the county tested positive for the virus, indicating an increase in virus activity, the agency said.

The chickens that tested positive for West Nile were collected in unincorporated areas of the county near North Port.

Sarasota County Mosquito Management Services has already conducted mosquito control treatments in the area.

No human cases of the virus have been reported in the county, FDOH said.

West Nile virus affects the central nervous system and can cause serious illness. However, about 80 percent of people who become infected with the virus will not show any symptoms, the agency said.

The FDOH in Sarasota County recommends the following tips to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes:

• Drain standing water from garbage cans, house gutters, buckets, pool covers, coolers, toys, flowerpots or any other containers where sprinkler or rainwater has collected.
• Discard old tires, drums, bottles, cans, pots and pans, broken appliances and other items that aren't being used.
• Empty and clean birdbaths and pet's water bowls at least once or twice a week.
• Protect boats and vehicles from rain with tarps that don't accumulate water.
• Maintain swimming pools in good condition and appropriately chlorinated. Empty plastic swimming pools when not in use.
• Wear shoes, socks, and long pants and long-sleeves, especially in areas where mosquitoes are present.
• Apply mosquito repellent to bare skin and clothing, and use repellents according to their label.
• Use mosquito netting to protect children younger than 2 months old.
• Repair broken screening on windows, doors, porches and patios to keep mosquitoes out of your house.

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