Nebraska’s latest mosquito testing data, released Friday, indicates a much higher number of insects than normal that are positive for carrying West Nile virus.
Nebraska Health and Human Services says 60 mosquito pools across the state have tested positive for the virus compared to an average of 3 positives by this time of the year
Higher positive mosquito pool detections have historically correlated with higher human disease cases, although there’s been only 1 confirmed human case so far this year.
Officials say the best way to avoid West Nile virus is to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.
Steps to avoid mosquito bites include: using DEET or other insect repellents and wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants, including those treated with a mosquito repellent.
You should also take extra precautions outdoors around dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active, and not allow standing water outdoors to become breeding grounds.
80% of people infected with West Nile virus do not develop any symptoms and nearly all of those who do have only mild symptoms, but a tiny percentage – less than 1% – can develop a severe illness affecting the central nervous system.
Another pandemic is on its way! Folks, please wear your masks whenever in public if possible. We need to try to control this!
If you are saying the West Nile Virus is an airborn disease, you need to read up on it. West is spread blood to blood mostly by mosquitoes. It definitely not airborn.