SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) – This week Chatham County Mosquito Control confirmed several mosquito samples tested positive for West Nile virus. The first samples were collected from the southern part of Savannah and the islands area.
Health experts say that comes with the territory and the time of year.
“Typically, in the summer we see West Nile virus,” said Dr. Chris Rustin, an administrator at the Chatham County Health Department. “Flies that transmit West Nile are usually found near your home. They like to lay eggs and grow in stagnant water. And so, it’s very important that if you have items around your home that hold water, you throw away those items that are not needed or throw the water out on a routine basis.”
Symptoms of the virus may be mild for most, but about 20% of those who carry the virus may experience symptoms such as fever, rash, and joint pain among others.
In rare cases, the virus can be fatal.
“Anyone who is elderly and has a compromised immune system is certainly at a much higher risk or if they get infected with West Nile and have a negative result,” Rustin said.
To best protect yourself from mosquito bites, the department of health and mosquito control advises you to apply bug spray, empty outdoor containers of water, and protect your skin by wearing long sleeves and pants.
“If you’re out and about these mosquitoes are mostly active at dusk or dawn,” Rustin said. “But also, consider if you have any doors in your home or windows that have torn screens. Make sure they are repaired.”
Rustin said if you follow these steps, you will easily reduce your chances of contracting the virus.
