West Nile Virus Hits Animals in Cobb County

Cobb County health officials say two animals have tested postive for West Nile Virus in Cobb County.

Officials did not say what kind of animals tested positive nor when the animals were tested.

Health officials remind residents to protect themselves against the virus by following these simple steps:

• Wear long pants, long sleeved shirts, and socks when outside
• Use insect repellants containing DEET (Read the label carefully and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Do not use DEET on infants or pregnant women)
• Make sure open doors and windows have tight fitting screens that are in good repair
• Reduce your time outdoors when mosquitoes are most active
• Use commercially available mosquito foggers and barrier sprays

”These cases reinforce the need for all of us to be vigilant in applying preventive measures to help control mosquito breeding. Everyone can help by doing simple things to ensure their own backyard is not a breeding ground for mosquitoes, said Jack Kennedy, M.D., District Health Director, Cobb and Douglas Public Health.

Tips to Eliminate Breeding Sites:

• Dispose of cans, tires, bottles, jars, buckets, drums, pots and any other containers that may collect water
• Clean clogged gutters and make sure the water exiting from downspouts does not pond
• Change the water in bird baths twice a week
• Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor spas, and hot tubs.If they are not in use, keep them empty and covered (make sure water does not collect on the cover)
• Empty your pets water bowl daily if it is kept outdoors
• Eliminate weeds, tall grass, and other mosquito resting places
• Move air conditioning drain hoses frequently
• Screen or cover rain barrels
• Store wheelbarrows, buckets, tubs, and barrels upside down so that water cannot accumulate inside them
• Use larvicide pellets when standing water cannot be removed. These pellets kill mosquito larvae before they become biting adults.
• Remind neighbors to eliminate breeding sites on their property

Tips courtesy of Cobb and Douglas Public Health