Signs of West Nile Virus detected in south Sarasota County

SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) - West Nile Virus has been detected in poultry near North Port, the Florida Department of Health in Sarasota County says.

Sentinel chickens in unincorporated areas of Sarasota County near North Port have tested positive for the virus. No human cases have been reported, the health department announced Friday.

Sarasota County Mosquito Management Services has already conducted mosquito control treatments in the area.

West Nile Virus affects the central nervous system and can cause serious illness. However, about 80 percent of people who become infected with the virus will not show any symptoms.

The health department has advice to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes and to take basic precautions to help limit exposure:

Drain standing water from garbage cans, house gutters, buckets, pool covers, coolers, toys, flowerpots or any other containers where sprinkler or rainwater has collected.
Discard old tires, drums, bottles, cans, pots and pans, broken appliances and other items that aren’t being used.
Empty and clean birdbaths and pets’ water bowls at least once or twice a week.
Protect boats and vehicles from rain with tarps that don’t accumulate water.
Maintain swimming pools in good condition and appropriately chlorinated.
Empty plastic swimming pools when not in use.
Cover skin with clothing or repellent.
Wear shoes, socks, and long pants and long sleeves. This type of protection may be necessary for people who must work in areas where mosquitoes are present.
Apply mosquito repellent to bare skin and clothing.
Use mosquito netting to protect children younger than 2 months old.