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Latest Headlines

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Escambia County Remains On High Alert Due To West Nile Threat

Escambia County residents should remain alert and take extra precautions to avoid mosquito bites — that’s the word from the Escambia County Health Department after at least five people in the county have confirmed cases of the West Nile Virus and a “Mosquito Borne Illness Advisory” remains in effect.

The reported cases mean “there is an imminent risk of additional persons becoming infected,” according to the Escambia County Health Department. The health department has not said where in the county the infected persons reside, but the exact location of those infected by West Nile is not important when the disease is spread by birds that can travel several miles and then by mosquitoes to humans.

“There is no place in Escambia County that would be better or worse than any other place,” said Dr. John Lanza, director of the Escambia County Health Department. “The abnormally high number of confirmed cases reaffirms the increased risk of contracting West Nile Virus for everyone in Escambia County.”

“Since most people who contract the disease have mild or no symptoms, there are most likely numerous undiagnosed cases throughout the area. All Escambia County, Florida residents and visitors should take precautions to limit their exposure to mosquitoes,” Lanza said.

Okaloosa County officials confirmed Friday that one person in that county has died as a result of the West Nile virus.

There are been 19 total cases of West Nile reported this year in Florida.

Mosquitoes infected with West Nile Virus can bite and infect humans. Symptoms of infection can range from mild to severe, including development of diseases such as meningitis or encephalitis. Being outdoors, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active, further increases the risk of infection. People with weakened immune systems and individuals over 50 may be at higher risk of the most severe form of the infection.

The Escambia County Health Department recommends that residents follow the Five D’s of mosquito control:

1. Dusk – avoid when mosquitoes are most active.
2. Dawn – avoid the next most active period.
3. DEET – use personal chemical protection to ward off mosquitoes.
4. Dress – cover exposed skin to block mosquito access.
5. Drain – remove standing water in pots, pet dishes, gutters and other retainers.

The health department also recommends these precautions:

• Apply insect repellent to exposed skin, or onto clothing, but not under clothing.
• In protecting children, read label instructions to be sure the repellent is age-appropriate.
• According to the CDC, mosquito repellents containing oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under the age of three years. DEET is not recommended on children younger than two months old.
• Avoid applying repellents to the hands of children. Adults should apply repellent first to their own hands and then transfer it to the child’s skin and clothing.