GREENE COUNTY — Trapped mosquitoes in the Bellbrook area of Greene County have tested positive for West Nile Virus, according to Greene County Public Health.
Greene County Public Health said the area with the positive mosquitoes is south of State Route 725, east of Wilmington-Dayton Road, north of Sugarcreek Metropark and west of Lakeman Drive.
The virus was detected in mosquitoes in Clark County in July.
West Nile Virus is a virus most commonly spread by infested mosquitoes. It can lead to severe fever, inflammation of the brain or meningitis.
“The primary carrier in Ohio is the northern house mosquito, Culex pipiens. Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds,” Greene County official said. “Infected mosquitoes can then spread the virus to humans and other animals when they bite.”
Greene County Public Health Commissioner Melissa Howell said people can protect themselves by:
- Eliminating standing pools of water, such as birdbaths, gutters, old tires, unused pools, boats and buckets, particularly after rain events.
- Avoid shaded areas where mosquitoes may be resting.
- Limit outdoor activity during evening hours.
- Wear protective clothing such as light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and pants.
- Use insect repellents (those containing DEET can be very effective; follow manufacturers’ usage recommendations).
Mark Isaacson, Program Manager of Greene County Public Health’s Special Services, said the impacted areas have been treated with larvicide to reduce the adult mosquito population.
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