NORFOLK, Va. — The Norfolk Department of Public Health warned people to take preventive measures outdoors in mosquito-infested areas, after a mosquito sample tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV).
The mosquito sample that was infected with WNV was collected at the Cedar Grove Cemetery at 238 East Princess Anne Road. The Division of Vector Control conducted mosquito control operations in the adjacent area, including treatment of standing water.
Infected mosquitos can pass West Nile Virus onto humans by biting them. Many people who are infected with WNV do not have any symptoms. However, when the virus develops into an illness people experience a mild fever, headache, body aches, vomiting, or diarrhea. In severe cases, people experience high fever, severe headache, nausea and vomiting, stiff neck, muscle weakness, confusion, disorientation, paralysis, seizures, or coma. About 10% of people with a serious case die.
Health officials advised residents to take these preventive steps to protect themselves from mosquito-borne illnesses:
- Avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellents when outdoors in mosquito-infested areas. Always ensure that you follow directions on the label.
- Wear clothing that is long, light, and loose.
- Home doors and windows should be well-screened to prevent entry of mosquitoes.
- It is important to eliminate mosquito breeding sites from yards by removing old tires, buckets, tubs, toys, and other items that hold rainwater. Dump ornamental containers (e.g., bird baths) on a weekly basis, or use mosquito larvicide pellets or dunks periodically to treat larger containers (e.g., ornamental ponds, stagnant swimming pools).
- Clean roof gutters and downspout screens.
Residents may report concerns about mosquitoes to Norfolk Cares at 757-664-6510 or online at MyNorfolk.org.