North Carolinians are being advised to do what they can to minimize mosquito bites as the West Nile virus will be more prevalent than usual this year. | Tom / Flickr
North Carolinians are being advised to do what they can to minimize mosquito bites as the West Nile virus will be more prevalent than usual this year. | Tom / Flickr
Coming on the heels of the COVID-19 pandemic and monkeypox, North Carolinians are now being told the state expects a robust West Nile virus season.
"Detecting a number of West Nile virus infections is a reminder to take precautions, especially because there are two months of active transmission season ahead of us,” Michael Doyle, an entomologist with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS), said in a WTVD report. “People should take precautions when outside to wear mosquito repellent and by emptying standing water on their property to reduce mosquito breeding near their homes.”
Four cases of the virus — including one in Cumberland County — have already been identified in humans in the state this year. The annual average is only two, the report said.
Here are some signs of infection: 20% of people who contract the virus develop a fever, headache, body ache, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea or rash. Some experience no or mild symptoms, while around 1% of people infected could have serious complications.
In addition to wearing insect repellent and getting rid of standing water around the house, the NCDHHS recommends making sure any window or door screens are in good condition so that mosquitoes have a harder time getting inside.
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