Mosquitoes collected in Essex Junction have tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). West Nile virus spreads through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most people infected with West Nile virus do not develop any symptoms. About 1 in 5 people who are infected develop a fever and other symptoms, such as a headache and body aches. About 1 out of 150 infected people develop a serious, sometimes fatal, illness.
The Health Department strongly urges people in Essex Junction to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites:
- Limit the amount of time you spend outdoors at dawn and dusk.
- Use EPA-registered insect repellent labeled as effective against mosquitoes. Apply repellent when you are going to be outdoors, especially at dawn or dusk.
- Treat clothing and gear with permethrin.
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors.
- Get rid of standing water (i.e., clogged roof gutters, bird baths). Mosquitoes breed in standing water that lasts more than four days.
- Cover baby carriages or outdoor playpens with mosquito netting.
- Fix any holes in your screens and make sure they are tightly attached to doors and windows.
Anyone with symptoms of West Nile virus should contact their health care provider as soon as they start to feel sick. Symptoms may include fever, headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Symptoms typically occur four to 10 days after a bite from an infected mosquito. Most people with a febrile (fever) illness due recover completely, but fatigue and weakness can last for a long time. Symptoms of severe West Nile virus may include fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness, and paralysis.
Get more information at www.HealthVermont.gov/disease-control/mosquito-borne-diseases/west-nile-virus