Health officials in Walton County, Florida are reporting a second human case of West Nile virus, prompting an updated health advisory as concerns of additional people becoming infected are present.

West Nile virus
Culex quinquefasciatus
Image/CDC

This follows the report of the first case of the year in the Sunshine State late last week in Walton County.

Walton County health officials remind the public to remain vigilant against mosquitoes by encouraging people to “Drain and Cover”.

DRAIN standing water to stop mosquitoes from multiplying:

    • Drain water from garbage cans, house gutters, buckets, pool covers, coolers, toys, flower pots or any other containers where sprinkler or rain water has collected.
    • Discard old tires, drums, bottles, cans, pots and pans, broken appliances and other items that aren’t being used.
    • Empty and clean birdbaths and pet’s water bowls at least once or twice a week.
  • Protect boats and vehicles from rain with tarps that don’t accumulate water.
  • Maintain swimming pools in good condition and appropriately chlorinated.  Empty plastic swimming pools when not in use.

COVER skin with clothing or repellent:

  • Clothing – Wear shoes, socks, and long pants and long-sleeves. This type of protection may be necessary for people who must work in areas where mosquitoes are present.
  • Repellent – Apply mosquito repellent to bare skin and clothing.
      • Always use repellents according to the label.  Repellents with DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, and IR3535 are effective.
  •  Use mosquito netting to protect children younger than 2 months old.

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