Outbreaks of West Nile Virus have sparked again. There have been cases all across the United States in largely populated areas.
According to the Centers for Disease Control “there are no vaccines to prevent or medicines to treat West Nile in people.” The good news is, “most people infected with West Nile virus do not feel sick. About 1 in 5 people who are infected develop a fever and other symptoms. About 1 out of 150 infected people develop a serious, sometimes fatal, illness.”
Even though this virus first broke out in 1999, it has returned and is starting to spread more rapidly, but are we in danger in Virginia Beach?
“I do not feel any sense of fear or danger given the city’s efforts to lower mosquito populations,” said senior Brandon Walker who mows lawns in his neighborhood. “I do not feel exposed to the dangers, given that I wear the proper P.P.E. of long pants and a long shirt, and a face-mask.”
Virginia beach offers extra protection by treating areas, even private property, that has high numbers of mosquitoes. According to the City of Virginia Beach Public Works page you can “request yard inspections and services from the Mosquito Control Bureau” by calling (757) 385-1470. Then “a Mosquito Control Bureau employee will visit your property and inspect the yard for any breeding sites and adult mosquitoes.” If “mosquitoes are found active during the visit the inspector can treat the area and give you information on ways that you can control any further problems.” The city also does night time sprays. You can find the spray map here.
“[West Nile] should be taken seriously; if you develop symptoms that are worsening, you should seek medical attention,” said nurse Jamie Mountain. “However, we can try to prevent it by preventing mosquito bites: using insect repellant, wearing long sleeves, pants, etc.”
There are many ways you can avoid mosquito bites, whether it is utilizing bug repellent, lighting citronella candles, or staying inside. Despite prevention, mosquito bites can still occur, and it is recommended that you seek medical assistance as soon as possible if you have West Nile like symptoms which include fever, headache, body aches, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash.
Your best protection is wearing clothing that covers as much of your body as possible if you are going to be in mosquito infested areas. Bug spray is also recommended. Stay safe SunDevils.
