Orange County Officials Warn After Mosquito Tests Positive for West Nile Virus

West Nile Virus Detect in Orange County, New York

Orange County Government shared in a press release that a mosquito carrying West Nile Virus was found in the Village of Goshen.

In the press release they write:

As a result of the continuing monitoring of Orange County’s mosquito population by the Orange County Department of Health, the first mosquito pool carrying West Nile Virus was found in the Village of Goshen.

Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus said in the statement “This is an important reminder that mosquito-borne illnesses like West Nile Virus are present in our region."

The West Nile Virus findings come "as part of the County's ongoing mosquito surveillance efforts to protect public health."

Symptoms of West Nile Virus To Look Out For

If you've gotten stung my a mosquito and think you may have West Nile Virus, there are specific symptoms to look out for.

The Center for Disease Control says flu like symptoms such as body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash are the main symptoms to look out for.

Additionally, the CDC explains that symptoms will usually start between 2 to 6 days after a bite, for people with weakened immune symptoms it may take longer.

There's a more severe risk with the West Nile Virus in older individuals who may have underlying medical conditions.

How to Protect Yourself From West Nile Virus

Orange County Government is sharing ways to keep mosquitos out of your yard in an attempt to keep your family safe from West Nile Virus.

In the press release Orange County explains that "Mosquitos can breed in any stagnant water that lasts more than four days."  They share the following steps to get rid of standing water that include disposing of tin cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots and other containers outside.

When you're not using wading pools or wheelbarrows they say flip them over, and make sure that your gutters are draining properly.

Here are a few other suggestions from Orange County Officials:

• Drill drain holes in the bottoms of recycling containers that are kept outdoors.

• Change the water in birdbaths twice a week.

• Remove all discarded tires from your property.

• Clean vegetation and debris from the edges of ponds.

• Drain water from pool covers. Also, remove leaves and debris as they collect on covers to reduce breeding areas.

Dr. Jennifer Roman adds that Orange County residents should "wear appropriate clothing and consider sprays when outdoors."

Additionally, you should "minimize outdoor activities between dusk and dawn."