ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) — Mosquitoes in Fulton County have tested positive for West Nile virus, according to the county’s health board.
The board’s environmental health staff found the samples at a trap in Grant Park, the organization announced Wednesday.
“Mosquitoes can be dangerous if infected and may pose a serious health risk to people in our area,” Dr. Brandon Leftwich, the board’s environmental health director, said in a statement. “We want to make sure communities are aware and take necessary precautions to protect themselves.”
West Nile virus is usually spread through mosquito bites, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Most people infected with the virus don’t show any symptoms, but some can become mildly or severely sick.
Mild illness might include flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea or rash. Those with a more severe case might have neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation and muscle weakness.
The health board offers the following tips to help keep yourself safe:
- Avoid being outside during dusk and dawn. That’s when mosquitoes are the most active during the summer.
- Wear loose-fitting, long-sleeved clothing to reduce exposed skin.
- Use bug spray containing DEET, the most effective repellent against mosquitoes.
- Get rid of any containers holding standing water around your home, including in buckets, barrels, flowerpots or tarps.
- Make sure your doors, windows and screens are repaired so mosquitoes can’t enter your home.
- Trim overgrown grass or weeds.
Click here to learn more about West Nile virus.
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