Summer may be coming to an end, but that doesn't mean we should take the threat of West Nile virus any less seriously.
Ohio has its ninth confirmed human case of West Nile virus this year, it was reported this week. The latest case was confirmed by the Ohio Department of Health Wednesday in Clark County in central Ohio. Health officials say the virus has been found in mosquito pools tested statewide.
West Nile is of greater concern in other areas of the country. Officials in Texas are spraying because of a growing West Nile virus epidemic that has infected more than 200 residents and killed 10 of them in the Dallas area.
It's an example of why West Nile needs to be taken seriously and steps should be taken to prevent the spread of the disease.
Ohio has recorded human cases of the virus each year since 2002. There were 21 cases last year. Most people develop no symptoms or mild symptoms. But a small percentage may develop a severe form, with symptoms that include headache, high fever, neck stiffness, coma, tremors, convulsions and paralysis.
If you own a home or property, there are steps you can take to limit the number of mosquitoes breeding on your property. Those steps include spraying or treating your yard and eliminating pools of water where mosquitoes can lay their eggs. Common areas where water can collect include flower pots, pet food and water dishes, birdbaths, swimming pool covers, buckets, barrels, and cans. Gutters can also hold water.
Follow these steps to protect your family and your community.