JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- The Duval County Health Department has confirmed one new case of west nile bringing the total confirmed cases in the county to 29. DCHD says the most recent case involved a 65-year-old man. The DCHD has not released any more information about that man's condition. Of the 29 cases confirmed in the county, one person has died.
DCHD says approximately one in 150 people infected with WNV will develop severe illness. Symptoms can include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness and paralysis. These symptoms may last several weeks, and neurological effects may be permanent.
The DCHD is asking the community to remain diligent in their personal mosquito protection efforts. These should include the following "Drain and Cover" Tips:
DRAIN standing water to stop mosquitoes from multiplying:
Drain water from garbage cans, house gutters, buckets, pool covers, coolers, toys, flower pots or any other containers where sprinkler or rain water has collected.
Discard old tires, drums, bottles, cans, pots and pans, broken appliances and other items that aren't being used.
Empty and clean birdbaths and pet's water bowls at least once or twice a week.
Protect boats and vehicles from rain with tarps that don't accumulate water.
Maintain swimming pools in good condition and appropriately chlorinated. Empty plastic swimming pools when not in use.
COVER skin with clothing or repellent:
CLOTHING - Wear shoes, socks, and long pants and long-sleeves. This type of protection may be necessary for people who must work in areas where mosquitoes are present.
REPELLENT - Apply mosquito repellent to bare skin and clothing.
Always use repellents according to the label. Repellents with DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, and IR3535 are effective.
Use mosquito netting to protect children younger than 2 months old.
COVER doors and windows with screens to keep mosquitoes out of your house:
Repair broken screening on windows, doors, porches, and patios.
If you have any questions or want more information, contact the Duval County Health Department at 904-253-1850, or visit the
State of Florida's West Nile Virus prevention center.
