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West Nile Virus confirmed in Boundary County
horses |
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August 17, 2016 |
On August 12, Panhandle Health District received
notification of two dead horses testing positive
for West Nile Virus in Boundary County. Both
horses were unvaccinated. This is the first
evidence of mosquitos potentially carrying West
Nile Virus in Boundary County since 2014.
West Nile Virus is a potentially serious illness
that is usually spread to animals and humans
through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most
people infected with the illness do not show
symptoms, although more severe symptoms may
occur. People with symptoms may experience
fever, headaches, body aches, fatigue, nausea,
vomiting, and sometimes swollen lymph glands or
a skin rash typically occurring 2 to 14 days
after the bite of an infected mosquito.
“We know mosquitos carrying West Nile can live
in North Idaho and mosquito pools have tested
positive in the past,” said Jeff Lee, Staff
Epidemiologist at Panhandle Health District.
“Residents should be aware of West Nile Virus
and take simple precautions to protect
themselves against mosquito bites.”
The best way to avoid the mosquito bites is to
reduce exposure to and eliminate breeding
grounds for mosquitoes. Panhandle Health
District recommends the following:
• Limit time spent outside at dawn and dusk,
when mosquitoes are most active.
• Apply insect repellant to clothing as well as
exposed skin since mosquitoes may bite through
clothing. Make sure window and door screens are
in good repair to prevent mosquito entry.
• Properly dispose of items that hold water,
such as tin cans, plastic containers, ceramic
pots, or discarded tires.
• Clean roof gutters and downspouts for proper
drainage.
• Turn over wheelbarrows, wading pools, boats,
and canoes when not in use.
• Change the water in birdbaths and pet dishes
at least every three days.
• Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor
saunas, and hot tubs; drain water from pool
covers.
• Trim tall grass, weeds, and vines since
mosquitoes use these areas to rest during hot
daylight hours.
• Landscape to prevent water from pooling in
low-lying areas.
• Repair damaged screens on windows and doors.
For more information on West Nile Virus in
Idaho, visit Idaho Department of Health and
Welfare at
www.westnile.idaho.gov . |
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