Key Takeaway:
- West Nile Virus Virginia Beach activity was detected in mosquitoes across 10 neighborhoods over the past three weeks.
- Mosquito Control has increased daytime and nighttime treatments in affected areas.
- Residents should remove standing water, use repellent, and limit outdoor activity around dusk and dawn.
Virginia Beach Public Works reports an increase in mosquitoes testing positive for West Nile virus in 10 neighborhoods over the past three weeks, prompting expanded mosquito-control treatments and calls for residents to eliminate standing water.
West Nile Activity Spreads Across 10 Areas
Positive mosquito samples linked to West Nile Virus Virginia Beach activity have been collected in Aragona, the Kempsville area, College Park, Brigadoon Forest, the Thalia area, Plaza, Pembroke, Bay Colony, Green Run, and Wesleyan Pines.
Mosquito Control has increased treatment activities in the affected areas. Daytime crews are treating standing water, while nighttime crews are treating affected areas as weather permits, according to Virginia Beach Public Works.
The city said, “Stagnant, standing water offers a prime breeding site for mosquitoes,” and urged residents to empty containers that collect water on their properties each week.
No human cases of West Nile virus have been reported in Virginia Beach to date, according to the city.
Officials Urge Residents To Limit Mosquito Exposure
Residents in West Nile Virus Virginia Beach areas are advised to wear long sleeves and long pants, choose loose-fitting, light-colored clothing, and minimize outdoor activity around dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes that transmit West Nile virus are most active.
The city also recommends using insect repellent and following all label instructions. Residents are encouraged to regularly check yards, patios, and other outdoor areas for containers or objects that can hold rainwater.
“Pour out any containers collecting water on your property weekly,” Virginia Beach Public Works said in its guidance to residents.
West Nile Virus Virginia Beach health concerns are linked to a viral disease transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes. Mosquitoes can spread the virus among birds, humans, and other mammals.
Most Infections Cause No Symptoms
Most people infected with West Nile virus do not develop symptoms. Some people experience mild, flu-like illness, while a small portion of those who develop symptoms can develop more serious neurological disorders.
People older than 50, those with chronic medical conditions, and people with weakened immune systems face a higher risk of serious illness from the virus, according to Virginia Beach Public Works.
The increase in positive mosquito samples does not mean human infections have been identified, but officials are urging residents to take preventive measures while mosquito-control crews continue treatments.
Reducing standing water can help limit mosquito breeding around homes and other properties. Residents can also reduce exposure by covering their skin and using insect repellent when spending time outdoors.
Virginia Beach Public Works said mosquito-control activities will continue in the affected areas, with nighttime operations dependent on weather conditions as the city responds to West Nile Virus Virginia Beach activity.
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