JACKSONVILLE, Fla. --As the rain falls, the risk rises for West Nile to spread. So far there have been nine confirmed cases in Duval County. But health officials say those numbers could grow. "It is scary, but all we can do is spray them and protect ourselves so we don't get bit," said mother, Chrystelle Ancelot.
Mosquitoes only need a teaspoon of water to breed. That's why health officials say it's important to drain any standing water especially after the recent rain. They also encourage everyone cover with clothes and repellent. "We are having to spray the kids when they go out and play in the coldesac or when they go back to the pool," said Ancelot.
More mosquitoes come out during dusk and dawn putting more children at risk as they wait at bus stops. "It seems like the mosquitoes are getting more visicious too. The kids just get these big welts," said Ancelot.
And that's something this mother of three takes very seriously. "We spray them with mosquito spray constantly," she said. West Nile symptoms include headache, fever, fatigue, dizziness, weakness and confusion. And right now doctors in Duval county are testing anyone with signs.
