13th and 14th sample of West Nile Virus found in mosquitoes in Mercer County

The thirteenth and fourteenth samples of mosquitoes positive for West Nile Virus (WNV) have been collected in Mercer County, according to two Wednesday news releases.

The thirteenth sample was collected from the City of Sharon in Mercer County. WNV was detected in mosquitoes collected there.

The fourteenth sample was collected from the borough of Grove City in Mercer County. WNV was also detected in mosquitoes collected there.

In both cases, additional monitoring will be done in the area where the sample was found, and appropriate control work will be conducted depending on the amount and type of mosquitoes found.

According to the release, no human cases of WNV have been reported in Mercer County at this time.

Although most people may not develop symptoms, some who contract WNV may experience:

• Fever
• Body aches
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Rash

Severe illness could occur in people of any age; however, people over 60-years-old, people with certain medical conditions such as cancer, diabetes, kidney disease and people who have received organ transplants are at greater risk.

If you think that you or a family member might be infected, it is recommended that you speak with your healthcare provider.

Businesses and residents located in Sharon and Grove City are encouraged to take extra precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes and reduce mosquito breeding habitats.

Tips to reduce the chances of being bitten by a mosquito, and to reduce mosquito breeding habitats include:

• Applying insect repellants with DEET to exposed skin and clothing
• Staying indoors at dawn, dusk and early evening, when mosquitoes are most active
• Eliminate standing water in containers like tin cars, used tires, bird baths, wheelbarrows, boats, cargo trailers, toys, ceramic pots and more

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