Residents in the Berks area are being advised to take precautions against mosquitoes as they test positive for West Nile virus. The virus is most commonly spread through a mosquito bite, but fortunately, most people infected do not show symptoms.
According to the CDC, about 1 in 150 infected individuals develop a serious and sometimes fatal illness. Despite low transmission risk, officials are considering adult mosquito control measures, such as truck spray, if the situation persists.
Residents can protect themselves by staying indoors during peak mosquito hours, wearing protective clothing, applying insect repellent with at least 30% DEET, and removing standing water from their properties to eliminate breeding sites.
Symptoms of West Nile virus infection include fever, headache, body aches, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. There are no vaccines available to prevent the disease, but treatment options are limited.
Source: https://www.wfmz.com/news/area/berks/concerns-grow-around-west-nile-virus-in-berks-county/article_f52dfa7f-aa11-496d-a82b-146427138f61.html