With spring comes mosquitoes, and with mosquitoes comes the threat of West Nile virus.  Though it can be very serious, West Nile virus cannot be spread from human to human.  The disease is spread when an infected mosquito bites a person.  Mosquitoes get the disease from feeding off of infected birds.  This year, the Ohio Department of Health is no longer testing dead crows and blue jays (corvids). Therefore, the Fairfield Department of Health will no longer be collecting dead birds for testing.

Protecting Yourself from West Nile virus

Residents can do many things to reduce their chances of a West Nile virus infection.  According to the CDC, residents can reduce the number of mosquito bites by making a habit of using insect repellent with DEET.  Remember that prime mosquito-biting hours are between dusk and dawn.  If you must be outdoors during these times, try to wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, shoes and socks.  Light colored clothes are least attractive to mosquitoes. 

Residents can help eliminate mosquitoes around their homes by checking around the yard for containers that could hold standing water.  In addition, regular changing of water in bird baths and flower pots will help minimize mosquito activity. If there is a pool or outdoor sauna or hot tub, be sure it is cleaned and chlorinated regularly.  Keep it drained when not in use. 

Please remember that West Nile virus is not the bird flu that has received so much media attention.  For more information about the West Nile virus, review the Center for Disease Control (CDC) website - www.cdc.gov.  For further questions or concerns about West Nile Virus or how to handle dead birds, please call the Fairfield Department of Health directly at 740-652-2800.