MARION COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – The Florida Department of Health in Marion County (DOH-Marion) has reported a fourth locally acquired human case of West Nile virus since July 2024.
In response, DOH-Marion says that it is working with the Marion County Board of County Commissioners to intensify mosquito control efforts, employing adulticide truck treatments with ultra-low volume (ULV) sprays in targeted areas.
DOH-Marion expresses that it is continuing statewide surveillance for mosquito-borne diseases, including West Nile virus, Eastern equine encephalitis, St. Louis encephalitis, malaria, chikungunya, and dengue. They ask that you report sightings of dead birds, which can indicate virus activity, through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s website.
To minimize the risk of West Nile and other mosquito-borne illnesses, DOH-Marion advises that you take basic preventive measures including using mosquito repellents, wearing long sleeves and pants, and eliminating standing water near homes to reduce mosquito breeding sites.
For more information, visit the DOH-Marion website or contact your local county health department.