Central District Health says they have received positive test results of the first case of West Nile Virus in Southwest Idaho. An Elmore county woman in her 30s has been diagnosed with the virus that is spread by contact with infected mosquitoes.
“We know the disease will remain until cold weather arrives,” said Dr. Sarah Correll, Epidemiologist with CDHD. “We hope that this case serves as a reminder to everyone that they need to make every effort to prevent mosquito bites.”
To reduce the likelihood of infection avoid mosquitoes particularly between dawn and dusk when they are most active. Also CDHD says applying a bug spray that contains DEET or other EPA-approved insect repellant to any exposed skin can reduce the risk.
West Nile may also affect animals like birds or horses but usually does not affect dogs or cats. People are asked to vaccinate their horses annually to prevent the spread of the virus.
