The Ohio Department of Health reports that five adult mosquito samples from Cuyahoga County have tested positive for West Nile Virus in Cuyahoga County, including Berea.
There are reports of only a handful of people being infected throughout Ohio.
The Cuyahoga County Board of Health said it is not unusual at the end of summer that some infected mosquitoes are detected in the area. Precautions should be taken until we have our first frost.
The county board of health suggests these guidelines to prevent mosquito and tick bites:
· Use insect repellant containing DEET, picaridin or lemon eucalyptus.
· Dispose of all containers that collect water (buckets, tires, cans, flower pots).
· Unclog gutters so that they drain properly.
· Empty and refill bird baths at least once a week.
· Clean, drain and cover pools and hot tubs.
· Tightly screen all doors and windows.
· Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants. Tuck pants into socks or boots when hiking or walking in wooded areas.
· Keep children indoors during peak times of mosquito activity (1 hour before and 1 hour after sunrise/sunset).
· Walk in the center of trails to avoid ticks in tall grass and bushes.
· Check your clothing to remove any ticks.
Symptoms of West Nile Virus: high fever, headache, muscle aches, vomiting and loss of appetite. Symptoms of tick-borne disease: fever, headache, joint pain, muscle aches, fatigue or a rash.
The Cuyahoga County Board of Health can be reached at (216) 201-2000 or visit www.ccbh.net.