MORE: Ohio West Nile virus activity highest since 2012
“The Butler County General Health District will continue to conduct surveillance activities to monitor mosquitoes in the county,” the statement sent this afternoon by the health district said.
Surrounding counties also have identified positive mosquito pools, and this news outlet reported last week that Ohio West Nile virus activity is at its highest since 2012.
Symptoms of West Nile include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, rash and body aches, according to the Ohio Department of Health.
To minimize mosquito populations and prevent bites, health officials suggest the following:
- Drain standing water
- Change the water in birdbaths and wading pools daily
- Wear long sleeve shirts and pants
- Maintain window screens
- Use EPA-registered insect repellents
The Butler County General Health District provides free “dunks” (mosquito larvicide) that can be used in abandoned pools, ditches, stagnant ponds or other large areas of water that cannot easily be drained.
The “dunks” are environmentally safe and won’t affect wildlife or domestic pets, according to the health district.
Screen repair kits also are available upon request through the Butler County General Health District.
For Butler County locations of free "dunks" or to request a screen repair kit, click here.
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