Allegheny County Health Department officials have confirmed that mosquitoes collected in certain parts of the county tested positive for West Nile virus. The samples were taken on July 8 from Wilkinsburg, Schenley Park, Mt. Washington, Beltzhoover, Mt. Oliver, and Hazelwood.
West Nile virus is the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the US, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It is usually spread through insect bites and cases occur during mosquito season, which typically starts in spring and continues through fall. Symptoms include fever, headache, body aches, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash.
There are currently no vaccines available to prevent West Nile virus, and treatment options are limited. The last reported case in Allegheny County was a Baldwin resident in July 2022.
To reduce the risk of mosquito bites, residents are advised to use insect repellent on exposed skin or wear long sleeves and pants. ACHD Vector Control Specialist Nicholas Baldauf recommends checking for potential breeding sites like stagnant water in tires, swimming pools, buckets, corrugated piping, and clogged gutters. Residents can report such sites by completing the ACHD’s online form or calling 412-350-4046.
If residents suspect they or someone they know has West Nile virus, they should consult a healthcare provider for evaluation and diagnosis.
Source: https://triblive.com/local/west-nile-virus-found-in-mosquito-samples-from-multiple-allegheny-county-neighborhoods