West Nile Virus Alert: Atlanta Mosquitoes Test Positive – What Health Officials Are Doing to Protect You

ATLANTA – The Fulton County Board of Health has detected new cases of West Nile virus in mosquitoes from three areas in Atlanta this week.

This news comes after positive samples were collected from traps in the northwest, northeast, and southwest parts of the city. Health officials are now working with pest control to treat these locations. They’ve begun alerting nearby residents and are encouraging everyone to eliminate standing water around their homes. This helps stop mosquitoes from breeding.

As a homeowner, you can take simple steps to protect yourself and your family from mosquitoes. Here’s a quick guide:

• Dusk/Dawn: Stay indoors during these times. Mosquitoes tend to be most active then.
• Dress: Wear long sleeves and pants to cover your skin.
• DEET: Use insect repellent that has DEET on exposed skin.
• Drain: Regularly check for standing water in containers like buckets, flowerpots, and tarps.
• Doors: Make sure window and door screens are in good shape to keep mosquitoes out. Trimming grass and weeds can also help.

Recent statistics show that in 2022, there were about 947 reported cases of West Nile virus in the U.S., highlighting the importance of these preventive measures. Experts recommend staying aware and proactive during the warmer months when mosquitoes are most prevalent. With the increase in travel and changing climate patterns, the risk of mosquito-borne diseases is a real concern. Keeping your surroundings clean and educating others can make a difference.

For further details, you can visit the Fulton County Board of Health website or follow them on social media @FultonHealth.

Stay safe, and let’s work together to keep our community healthy!

Source link

Us,Ga,Fulton County,News,Health