(Spirit Lake)– West Nile Virus has been found in Dickinson county.
The Iowa Department of Public Health says the disease was found in a dead blue jay in Lake Park.
West Nile Virus is transmitted to humans by mosquitos. As a result, Dickinson County Public Health Nurse Mary Dunleavy says it’s even more important now to protect yourself from the insects. She says it’s a good idea to avoid being outdoors in the evening and early morning…when mosquitos are most active. If you are out at those times, you should be sure to use a high quality mosquito repellant that has a substance known as DEET in it. It’s also a good idea to cover up whenever you’re outdoors by wearing long-sleeved shirts, pants, shoes and socks.
Dunleavy says you can reduce the mosquito population in your area by getting rid of any standing water.
More information on West Nile Virus is available by going to the Iowa Department of Public Health Website Iowa Department of Public Health. Or the Centers For Disease Control Website Centers For Disease Control
