UTAH COUNTY — The Utah County Health Department has confirmed a human case of West Nile Virus in Utah County.
This is the first Utah County case since the 2017 mosquito season, a statement from the UCHD says.
“This should serve as a reminder to all residents to take steps to prevent mosquitoes and West Nile Virus The importance of using insect repellent with DEET can not be overstated,” said Dan Miller, Mosquito Abatement Director, in a prepared statement.
“We encourage residents to use online tools to request free services from the Health Department’s Mosquito Abatement District. Another great online tool is the interactive GIS maps showing current and past mosquito trapping activity, including positive WNV mosquito pools.”
West Nile Virus (WNV) can cause mild to severe illness and many people may not even know they have been infected, the statement says.
“It is estimated that less than 1% of people infected with WNV will develop severe infection, which can result in debilitating long-term complications or death. Symptoms of WNV appear within three to 14 days, and include fever, headache and body aches. Severe infections may include high fever, neck stiffness, disorientation, coma, tremors and convulsions.
The department suggests people protect themselves with guidelines it describes as the Mosquito Prevention “Ds”:
- DRAIN standing water. Remove items that can collect standing water such as tires, buckets, unused flower pots, toys, etc.
- DAWN and DUSK are times to avoid being outside
- DRESS appropriately by wearing long sleeves and pants when outside
- DEFEND yourself by using insect repellent with DEET
- DOOR and window screens should be in good working condition
- DISTRICT personnel are available to address mosquito concerns. Call 801-851-7637 or fill out a service request form online at: bit.ly/UCMosquitoRequest
