West Nile Virus found in test samples in Duval County

Jacksonville, FL — The Duval County Health Department is warning you to protect yourself against mosquitoes, after several sentinel chicken flocks tested positive for West Nile Virus.

Sentinel chickens are flocks in various areas of the City, which have their blood checked for mosquito-borne diseases. Health officials say these new test results mean the risk of transmission of West Nile to humans is now increased in Duval County. To protect yourself, the Health Department wants you to “Drain and Cover”.

Drain any standing water from around your home to prevent mosquitoes from multiplying. This could include garbage cans, pool covers, or even small toys. You should discard old tires, pots, or anything that may be around your yard, which could collect water. You should also maintain swimming pools in good condition, tarp boats and vehicles from rain, and keep bird baths and pet water bowls clean.

You’re also encouraged to cover your skin with clothing or repellant to protect yourself from bites. Mosquito repellent should contain DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol, or IR3535. Be cautious, with some repellants not suitable for children- on infants, you should use mosquito netting.

Health officials also encourage you to cover doors and windows with screens, so that mosquitoes can’t get in to your home.

The Duval County Health Department says they, along with Jacksonville’s Mosquito Control Division, continue surveillance and prevention efforts.

The CDC says most people infected with West Nile do not show symptoms. About 1 in 5 people will develop and fever or other symptoms, and about 1 in 150 people will develop a serious illness, which could include central nervous system effects like encephalitis and meningitis. There is no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment, but the CDC says over-the-counter  pain relievers can be used for the minor symptoms.

This comes a few weeks after sentinel chickens tested positive for West Nile in Keystone Heights in Clay County. Testing since then has not found any further positive samples.

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