The Ontario County Public Health Department has confirmed a case of West Nile Virus in a resident from the northern Finger Lakes region. Officials say the individual contracted the virus through the bite of an infected mosquito.
Late summer and early fall are peak transmission periods for mosquito-borne illnesses, and health officials are reminding the public to take steps to “Fight the Bite.”
“Mosquitoes are still active and we urge the public to Fight the Bite until a heavy frost,” said Kate Ott, Director of Ontario Public Health. “Use insect repellent, wear long sleeves when outdoors, and eliminate standing water around homes.”
Most people infected with West Nile Virus do not experience symptoms. However, some may develop fever, headache, body aches, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Older adults and those with weakened immune systems are more likely to become ill. In rare cases, the virus can cause severe neurological conditions such as encephalitis or meningitis.
Health officials recommend:
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Use EPA-registered insect repellents with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus
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Wear long sleeves and pants outdoors, especially at dawn and dusk
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Remove standing water from items like flowerpots, gutters, buckets, and birdbaths
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Make sure window and door screens are intact
Anyone who develops symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, or rash is urged to seek medical attention.
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