West Nile virus can be spread to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito, with the majority of those infected showing no symptoms. While the threat of infection is low, initial symptoms can include headache and fatigue, and in rare circumstances neurological symptoms. WNV is found annually in birds and mosquitoes in our region, serving as a reminder that mosquitoes. can be more than a nuisance.

The best way to prevent mosquito-transmitted illness is to reduce the number of mosquitoes around your home and take personal precautions to avoid mosquito bites. To further lessen the risk, follow these recommendations:

• Avoid being outdoors when mosquitoes are most active, especially between dusk and dawn.

• Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks when outdoors.

• Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus according to label

instructions.

• Eliminate sources of standing water on property (i.e. wading pools, old tires, bird baths, containers) by

dumping water when possible to prevent mosquito larvae from developing into biting adults.

• Vaccinating horses for both West Nile virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis is strongly recommended.

• Call Bay County Mosquito Control to report dead crows or blue jays for WNV testing.

Contact Bay County Mosquito Control at (989) 894-4555 for more information or if you have standing water on your property you would like inspected.