Several mosquito pools from the Panhandle have recently tested positive for West Nile Virus.
These positive pools give local health departments indicators of the location of the virus and the
potential for it to be spread through human contact. Several counties in the Panhandle have been
routinely testing sites to trap and monitor mosquitos over the summer months.
To help reduce the risk of West Nile Virus spread, Melissa Cervantes, Environmental Health
Coordinator for Panhandle Public Health, urges residents to follow these precautions to protect
themselves and their families:
Use a mosquito repellant that contains DEET.
Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, shoes and socks.
Take extra precautions when going outdoors at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most
active.
Drain standing water.
Add larvicides to animal drinking troughs.
Keep window screens in good repair.
West Nile Virus is contracted through mosquitos that have bitten an infected bird. Generally
birds cannot pass the virus on it is only through the bite of a mosquito that humans can become
infected. West Nile includes flu-like symptoms that can include a slight fever and headaches.
Severe symptoms of West Nile can lead to encephalitis which can cause inflammation of the
brain, disorientation, convulsions and paralysis. People over 50, infants, and pregnant women are
especially susceptible to this disease.
The positive mosquito pools indicate that the local health departments are no longer accepting
dead birds for testing. If you suspect you have a bird that has died of unknown origins related to
West Nile, dispose of it by sealing it in a Ziploc bag and throwing it away. Do not touch a bird
with your bare hands, use gloves or an inverted bag to handle and dispose of. If you have any
questions regarding birds or West Nile Virus, please call Melissa Cervantes at 308-487-3600
extension 108 or e-mail at [email protected].
For additional information on West Nile Virus visit www.pphd.org or call PPHD at 308-487-
3600 or toll free at 866-701-7173. Panhandle Public Health District is working together to
improve the health, safety and quality of life for all who live, learn, work and play in the
Panhandle. Our vision is that we are a healthier and safer Panhandle Community.