West Nile Virus found in mosquitoes from Boardman Township, no human cases
BOARDMAN According to a news release from Mahoning County Public Health (MCPH), West Nile Virus has been detected in some mosquitoes caught in a surveillance trap within the county.
The mosquitoes were caught in Boardman Township, and MCPH is resporting that the population caught was positive for West Nile Virus.
It is noted in the release that West Nile Virus could be present in mosquito populations throughout Mahoning County, but so far in 2025, there have been no human cases of West Nile Virus in the county.
Several other areas around Mahoning County have been reported to have positive cases of West Nile Virus found in mosquitoes, including:
- Poland, reported by MCPH on July 9
- Austintown and Beaver Township, reported by MCPH on July 16
West Nile Virus, a mosquito-borne disease, can be spread to humans by a mosquito bite.
Tips are shared on how to reduce the risk of contracting West Nile Virus by limiting the risk of being bitten by a mosquito.
Tips include:
- Wear long pants, shirts with long sleeves and socks if outdoors between dawn and dusk, when mosquitos are most active
- Wear light colors, as these are the least attractive to mosquitos
- Use insect repellant and follow label directions
- Remove water-holding containers, such as unused flower pots or tin cans
- Pour out standing water
- Make sure all roof gutters are properly draining and clean
- Empty children's wading pools and lay the pools on their side when not in use
The three most common mosquito-borne diseases that occur in the area, according to the release, are Lacrosse Encephalitis, St. Louis Encephalitis and West Nile Virus.
Early symptoms of a mosquito-borne disease could include naseau, fever, vomiting and a headache.
More serious symptoms include drowsiness, stiff neck, disorientation, tremors and possibly seizures.
If you have any of the above symptoms and a history of recent mosquito bites, it is encouraged that you contact your physician.
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