More mosquitoes carrying West Nile Virus confirmed in Cuyahoga County

CLEVELAND - The Cuyahoga County Board of Health has learned there are more mosquitoes carrying the West Nile Virus in the county.

To date, 213 mosquitoes with the West Nile Virus have been identified statewide. Lake and Summit counties also have the insects carrying the disease.

There has been one human case confirmed of WNV in southwest Ohio's Clermont County, but none locally.

The Ohio Department of Health said it's not unusual for infected mosquitoes to be identified this time of year. Many communities are spraying neighborhoods to help with the issue.

"Utilizing appropriate personal protection measures is critical for West Nile Virus prevention this time of year," said Cuyahoga County Board of Health Commissioner Terry Allan. "Historically, the number of West Nile Virus human cases nationwide peaks in late August and early September."

There are a number of ways to prevent mosquito activity, such as eliminating standing water, unclogging gutters and drains, filling tree holes with tar or cement, among other ways.

The current drought draws mosquitoes near any available water source.

People who experience symptoms commonly associated with West Nile Virus such as high fever, headaches, muscle aches, vomiting and loss of appetite within 2-15 days after a mosquito bite should contact a doctor.

You can contact the Cuyahoga County Board of Health to report areas of persistent standing water or heavy populations of biting mosquitoes at (216) 201-2000 or online at http://www.ccbh.net.