State reports first case of West Nile Virus
A woman from Brantley County is the first person in the state to be infected with West Nile Virus, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health.
The woman was infected in May by an infected mosquito and has recovered without hospitalization.
» MORE: About West Nile Virus
Spokeswoman Nancy Nydam said the state usually sees one or two cases that time of year. “July and August is when we really start to see an increase in mosquitoes,” she said. “There’s been a lot of rain lately and mosquitoes love rain and they particularly love standing water.”
She advised people to make sure there is no standing water in their yards - in empty flower pots, pet dishes or old tires. “Don’t give them a place to breed.”
Other tips include:
• Mosquitoes carrying the virus usually bite at dusk and dawn, so avoid or limit outdoor activity at these times.
• Wear loose-fitting, long sleeved shirts and pants to reduce the amount of exposed.
• Cover exposed skin with an insect repellent containing the DEET.
• Make sure doors and windows fit tightly and repair damaged screens.
About the Author
Shelia has worked at The Atlanta Journal-Constitution for more than 30 years. Previously, she worked at The Lexington Herald-Leader and The Louisville Defender. Her beat is a bit of a mixed bag that includes religion and spirituality, culture and trends, race and aging. She earned degrees from Spelman College and Northwestern University.
