CRESSONA, SCHUYLKILL COUNTY (WBRE / WYOU) - The error came back and some might end up giving you not just a itchy bite. This year, the first positive sample of the Nile River West Nile has been found in our area. Eyewitness journalist Haley Bianco shows us why now take steps to save you this summer.
Mosquitoes return to the city, but the environmental protection department is paying attention to them.DEP sets traps in tree-lush areas and waterways and tests for disease samples that can be transferred to humans. This year, the state found the first mosquito carrying the West Nile virus found in Cressona.
"This means that the West Nile season is on us," says Colleen Connolly.
Schuylkill County is listed as a "moderate risk state" of the virus. But now is the time to prevent more mosquito-borne diseases.
People get viruses from mosquitoes, but mosquitoes get viruses from birds - so if you find dead birds outdoors or backyard, it's important to deal with dead birds. The water on your property can bring mosquitoes back more. Experts recommend removing the standing water.
"Do not give mosquitoes a breeding place."
If you really do, the doctor is most likely to see a doctor.
"In general, if you are a healthy person, then this risk is even less," said Gail Newton, infection prevention coordinator at LVHN-Schuylkill.
But if your immune system has been compromised - things may be escalating quickly. Symptoms of West Nile disease include: fatigue, fever, nausea ... or if progress - brain and spinal cord swelling.
"Very dangerous thing," Newton said.
That's why it's important to be aware of the danger - before you get it. And want to store bugs spray - make a home in more mosquitoes near your home
"The West Nile virus and mosquitoes were the most hot in the summer of July, but now they are protecting themselves," said Connelly.
DEP plans to spray the regions of our region with the most positive samples. This will start in the summer
