Ohio Ranks Top for Mosquito-Borne Viruses

Greene County, Ohio (WDTN) — The Greene County Public Health Department is gearing up for an active mosquito season as the state reports a mosquito-borne virus outbreak is imminent.

Summer is approaching, and environmental health officials at the Greene County Public Health Department are gearing up for a season of pesky mosquito activity. Ohio was recently ranked as the state with the highest number of La Crosse virus cases, with 205 cases.

When experts test mosquito samples, no virus is detected. Viruses can only be discovered when individuals start showing symptoms.

“La Crosse causes a condition called encephalitis, or swelling of the brain,” said the Greene County Public Health Department. “This virus primarily affects young people under the age of 16.”

Currently, there is no cure for encephalitis, only symptomatic treatment.

Although precautions are available to people, they should take some steps to protect themselves.

It is recommended to wear long sleeves and long pants, carry and use insect repellent and mosquito repellent. Populated areas where mosquitoes may reside should be avoided, such as birdhouses, gutters, and poorly maintained swimming pools. If your birdbath is full of water or your gutters are clogged, it’s a good idea to remove them.

For more information, please contact the Environmental Health Team at 937-374-5682.