DOVER, Ohio (WOIO) – The Tuscarawas County Health Department (TCHD) warns the community on Thursday of a horse that tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV) in the Mineral City area.
While it has been confirmed in a horse, TCHD says it is an important reminder that the virus is circulating in the local mosquito population.
According to TCHD’s Facebook post, WNV is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Horses do not spread the virus directly to people or other horses.
To protect yourself from mosquito, the health department recommends the following to prevent bites:
- Use verified insect repellent, specifically one with DEET chemicals that are proven to repel insects.
- Wear long sleeves and long pants when outdoors if able.
- Avoid being outside in the early morning or late evening as mosquitos are most active at these times.
- Keep windows and screens in good condition to prevent them from entering homes.
- Get rid of any standing water where mosquitos can breed, and replace water that is held in buckets or other containers outside.
- Properly maintain swimming pools.
If you are a horse owner, TCHD also recommends to consult veterinarians and follow recommended vaccination schedules.
Most people infected with WNV do not develop symptoms. According to the health department, about 20% of the infected may develop an illness with symptoms such as:
- Fever
- Headache
- Body aches
- Joint pain
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Rashes
If you have an exposure with a mosquito and show symptoms, TCHD says to contact your health provider.
The Tuscarawas County Health Department monitors mosquito activity frequently, and says that community members can help by reporting large bodies of standing water or heavy mosquito presence to the department directly, or by visiting their website at www.tchdnow.org.
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