Second sample tests positive for West Nile Virus in Greene County

FAIRBORN — West Nile Virus was detected in a second mosquito sample Greene County sent to the Ohio Department of Health, according to Greene County Public Health.

The positive sample came from mosquitoes tested in August in Fairborn’s Five Points area.

Public Health has been monitoring adult mosquitoes in the surrounding communities, according to the release.

“On Sept. 4, after receiving that report, the neighborhood around the Five Points area of Fairborn was treated with adulticide to try and reduce the adult mosquito population,” said Jeff Webb, director of Environmental Health Services. “Staff has been trapping mosquitoes since May, and we will continue to do so until October, concentrating on human population centers.”

>> West Nile virus detected in second sample of mosquitoes in Miami County
West Nile Virus 

West Nile Virus is commonly spread through infected mosquito bites.

The virus can lead to severe fever, inflammation of the brain or meningitis, according to the release.

Greene County Public Health Commissioner Melissa Howell reminded people to protect themselves from West Nile Virus by:

• Eliminating standing pools of water, especially after heavy rains
• Avoiding shaded areas were mosquitoes may rest
• Limiting outdoor activity during the evening
• Wearing light-colored clothing, long-sleeved shirts and pants to protect from bites
• Using insect repellents, especially ones containing DEET

Public Health will continue to monitor mosquitoes and check for standing water. Officials will also keep applying larvacide, trapping and testing mosquitoes and spraying adulticide.

For more information, contact Environmental Health Services at 937-374-5607.