CARLISLE, Pa. — A second mosquito carrying West Nile virus (WNV) was collected in Cumberland County.
Cumberland County's Vector Control Office was notified by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) of the second positive mosquito sample for WNV. The positive sample was reportedly collected in Carlisle Borough.
Earlier this week, a positive sample was found in South Middletown Township Park.
The Cumberland County Vector Control Office will continue to monitor mosquito activity and treat water habitats to limit mosquito populations.
Residents can help prevent the diseases spread by mosquitoes by:
- Using mosquito repellants, wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants.
- Taking extra precautions around dusk, the peak of female mosquito feeding.
- Securing window and doors screens, so mosquitoes can’t make it into your home.
- Eliminating stagnant water around your property.
- Treating water sources that cannot be drained, mosquito dunks or bits that contain Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti), which kills larvae. These products are safe for use around humans, and pets and can be found at hardware stores and other local retailers.
The virus is not spread by person-to-person contact. One in five people infected with WNV develop a mild infection called West Nile fever; aches, fever, skin rash and swollen lymph nodes are symptoms of this infection.
With rest and fluids, most people recover in a few days.
Less than one percent of infections develop into the life-threatening West Nile Encephalitis. Symptoms in severe cases include a high fever, headache, neck stiffness, muscle weakness, disorientation, tremors, and convulsions.
This infection requires immediate medical treatment.
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