Officials from the Allen County Health Department are encouraging residents to take precautions and protect themselves against mosquito-borne illness.  

The Ohio Department of Health has reported an increase in the number of mosquito pools that have tested positive for West Nile virus in the state.  In addition, reports of West Nile Disease in humans are increasing. 

Three other diseases including La Crosse encephalitis, St. Louis encephalitis and Eastern equine encephalitis can also be transmitted through the bite of a mosquito.

While most people infected with mosquito-borne viruses show no symptoms, some people have a mild fever, headache and muscle aches that will last up to a week.  A small number of infected people will develop severe illness requiring hospitalization.

Symptoms of more severe illness are body aches, fever, confusion, weakness, stiff neck, tremors and convulsions.  People over 50, children under the age of 16, and people with existing health problems are at greatest risk for developing severe illnesses from infected mosquitoes.

“Even with the dry summer we experienced this year, it is still important to take steps to protect ourselves from mosquito-borne diseases,” says Kathy Luhn, Health Commissioner.  The two most important steps to protect are to avoid being bitten and to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds.

To avoid being bitten by mosquitoes: Avoid outdoor activities between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active; if you must be outdoors, be sure to wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, shoes and socks. Light colors are least attractive to mosquitoes. Use insect repellent and follow the label directions.

To eliminate mosquito breeding sites near your home: Remove all discarded tires and other water-holding containers, such as tin cans and unused flower pots, from your property.  Eliminate standing water from your property. 

Make sure all roof gutters are clean and properly draining.  Clean and chlorinate pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs.  Keep them empty when not in use and drain water from pool covers. Change water in bird baths weekly.