Human case of West Nile Virus confirmed in Duval County
Key Points:
- The Florida Department of Health in Duval County has confirmed a locally-acquired human case of West Nile virus, leading to coordinated prevention efforts including ground spraying by Jacksonville Mosquito Control.
- Residents are urged to eliminate standing water around their homes, such as in containers, birdbaths, and pools, to reduce mosquito breeding grounds.
- Protective measures include wearing long clothing, using mosquito repellents containing DEET or similar ingredients, and ensuring window and door screens are intact to keep mosquitoes out of homes.
- Most people infected with West Nile virus show no symptoms, but about 20% may experience flu-like symptoms; severe illness is rare but requires immediate medical attention.
- Statewide surveillance for mosquito-borne illnesses continues, and residents are encouraged to report dead birds as an indicator of West Nile virus activity.