Be Very Careful the West Nile Virus Detected in Mosquitos in Salem New Hampshire

COVID-19 isn’t the Only Virus to be on the Lookout for – West Nile is Back

The West Nile Virus has been detected in a batch of mosquitos that were collected in Salem, New Hampshire on August 3 according to wmur.com.  Time to get out that insect repellent.  The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services has elevated the risk for the virus in our area to low.  Although the risk may be listed as low it is still something to be aware of.  You don’t want to get West Nile Virus.

State Health Department Officials Make Statement

Dr. Benjamin Chan, a state epidemiologist said in a press release, “Until there is a statewide mosquito-killing frost, it remains important for everybody to take steps to prevent mosquito bites, including wearing long sleeves, using an effective mosquito repellant on exposed skin, and avoid outdoor activities at dawn and dusk when the mosquitos are most active,” according to reporting by wmur.com.  Another reason to avoid mosquitos is the risk of Eastern Equine Encephalitis and Jamestown Canyon virus.  A New Hampshire resident died just last month after contracting the Jamestown Canyon virus.

What to look for

If you are bitten by a mosquito carrying the West Nile Virus, you most likely not see symptoms for about a week.  The symptoms can feel like the flu, you can have a fever and muscle aches, and fatigue.  Some people just get mild symptoms while others can experience a more serious central nervous system disease.  Contact your healthcare provider if you have any doubts or are experiencing symptoms.  I get so freaked out by sharks when the real threat from viruses is invisible to the naked eye.  Just something else to worry about as if I don’t have enough.  Wear your insect repellent.

Since we are on the topic of getting bit look at this