Health officials confirm positive mosquito sample of West Nile virus in Oklahoma County
The Oklahoma City-County Health Department has confirmed one positive mosquito sample to be carrying the West Nile virus in Oklahoma County.
"Residents need to focus on reducing habitats where mosquitoes live and breed by getting rid of any sources of stagnant water and wearing repellent containing DEET,” Phil Maytubby, public health director of the OCCHD, said in a news release.
Symptoms of West Nile virus include fever, headache, body ache and sometimes a rash, officials said. Infants, elderly people and people with weakened immune systems are most susceptible to the virus.
Health officials said the best way to reduce mosquito habitats is by emptying water from buckets, flower pots and tires and by emptying and refilling birdbaths and any pets' outdoor water bowls daily. Officials also suggest using a microbial larvicide called "dunks," which are available at home improvement stores, in standing water that cannot be drained.
Mosquito season started about a month later than normal this year because of colder than normal temperatures, Maytubby said.
"With the above average temperatures and rain becoming infrequent, we are concerned about the potential for West Nile transmission to be elevated," officials said in the news release. "West Nile virus can be debilitating and deadly."
Health officials suggest using the 3 D's and a P of mosquito safety:
- DRAIN standing water on your property so mosquitoes won't breed.
- Use DEET repellent on your clothes.
- DRESS in long sleeves and pants.
- PROTECT -- limit outside exposure and check window screens.