WALLA WALLA COUNTY, Wash.-Two cases of West Nile Virus have been confirmed in residents from Walla Walla and Franklin Counties in the past week.
The two cases have been confirmed by the Walla Walla County Department of Community Health (WWCDCH), Benton-Franklin Health District (BFHD), and the Washington State Department of Health.
Both people who tested positive for the virus were likely exposed in their home counties according to a joint press release from the BFHD and WWCDCH.
Most people and animals who are bitten by mosquitos infected with West Nile virus develop no symptoms according to the press release on the recent infections.
About 1 in 5 people who are infected will develop fever with other symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash, with most recovering completely.
Horses can be vaccinated against West Nile and annual booster shots are available through veterinarian providers.
According to the BFHD and WWCDCH the best protections against West Nile Virus are bite prevention and mosquito habitat reduction.
Avoiding mosquito bites:
Use EPA-registered insect repellent.Stay indoors if possible during the peak mosquito hours of dawn and dusk.Use screens on windows and doors.Wear pants, long-sleeves and a hat when in areas where mosquitos are present.
Reduce mosquito habitat:
Identify sources of standing water such as tires, buckets, planters and bird baths and empty them regularly.
