Harford Health Department Warns About West Nile, Tiger Mosquitoes

Since state officials reported recently that they have begun tracking West Nile and other mosquito-transmitted viruses, the Harford County Health Department is urging the public to learn about the mosquitoes and take precautions.

West Nile

West Nile virus has been found in all jurisdictions in the state, according to the Maryland Department of Mental Health and Hygiene.

For the most part, West Nile virus does not result in symptoms, according to the Harford County Health Department, which reports one in five people infected will get a mild form of the sickness, known as West Nile fever, that could last from a few days to several weeks.

Fewer than 1 percent of those infected get a neurological illness with symptoms like high fever, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness and paralysis, health officials said. Symptoms may last several weeks and could result in permanent effects to the nervous system, which may be fatal, health officials said.

Adults 50 years of age and older are at the greatest risk of developing severe illness if infected, according to the health department, which said there are no medications to treat or vaccines to prevent West Nile virus.

Tiger Mosquitoes

The Asian tiger mosquito has been found in all Maryland counties except Garrett and Allegany, according to the Maryland Department of Agriculture. The tiger mosquito is aggressive and will follow people into their homes and come out during the day, the health department reported.

It may be a carrier of the West Nile virus and the agent that causes heartworm in dogs, the Maryland Department of Agriculture reports.

Chikungunya

Health officials also cautioned people about another mosquito-borne illness called chikungunya infection. Symptoms include fever, joint pains, headache, muscle pains or rash, according to the health department, which advised getting medical attention if you think you have chikungunya infection.

Protect Yourself, Your Surroundings

“Prevention is key," Harford County Health Officer Susan Kelly said.

Wear protective clothing—long pants, long-sleeved shirts and hats—when concerned about mosquito exposure. Also, use an EPA-registered insect repellent, Kelly advised. She added people should put mosquito netting over baby carriers when taking infants outside.

In addition, Kelly urged citizens to reduce standing water, which is a mosquito breeding ground.

• Empty water from flowerpots, pet food dishes, birdbaths, swimming pool covers, buckets, barrels, cans or any other place with standing water one to two times per week.
• Clean out clogged rain gutters.
• Look for and remove containers/trash in places that may be hard to see, such as under bushes or under your home.
• Aerate ornamental pools and water gardens or stock with fish and use a circulating filter system.
• Install or repair screens so mosquitoes can't get inside.