The Nebraska Department of Health has issued new warnings to protect yourself and your family from West Nile virus. The Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department said two cases have been reported recently. Douglas County also reported a case in June. More: Douglas County Health Department confirms first West Nile virus case this year Officials said most people infected don’t feel sick. About one in five people will have a fever and symptoms that include headache, body aches, vomiting and rash. Fewer than 1% develop severe illness. The health department said the risk can be reduced by taking measures to reduce the number of mosquitoes around your home. “Empty small wading pools daily, remove weeds and debris from drains, change bird bath water weekly and pet bowl water daily, store tires, buckets and containers where water cannot accumulate, fill low spots in the yard, maintain garden ponds and fountains and make sure water is always running,” Chris Schroeder said.People are also advised to limit time outdoors at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are less active and to use an EPA-registered insect repellent. Long-sleeved shirts, pants, shoes and socks also help protect against the virus. Click here for the latest headlines from KETV NewsWatch 7.
The Nebraska Department of Health has issued new warnings to protect yourself and your family from West Nile Virus.
The Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department announced two new cases were reported recently.
Douglas County also reported cases in June.
READ MORE: Douglas County Health Department confirms first case of West Nile Virus this year
Officials said most people who are infected do not feel sick.
About one in five people will experience fever as well as other symptoms such as headache, body aches, vomiting and rash.
Fewer than 1% of people develop severe illness.
The health department said the risk would be mitigated by taking steps to reduce mosquito populations around the site.
“Empty water from small wading pools daily, remove weeds and debris from drains, change bird baths weekly and pet bowls daily, store tires, buckets and containers where water cannot accumulate, fill in low spots in the yard and maintain garden ponds and fountains to keep water flowing,” said Chris Schroeder.
They also recommend limiting time outdoors at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are less active, and always use an EPA-registered insect repellent.
Long-sleeved shirts, pants, shoes and socks also help protect against the virus.
For the latest headlines from KETV NewsWatch 7, click here