Suffolk, Va. – The City of Suffolk has detected the first West Nile Virus (WNV) positive mosquito pool in the Hampton Roads area, officials tell NewsChannel 3.
The mosquitoes that tested positive for WNV are located in the Pleasant Hill area of Suffolk.
There are also more areas that have been identified with having increased EEE activity, including: Applewood Farms, Clay Hill, Cove Point, Hosier Road, Kilby Shores, Lake Kennedy Estates, Pleasant Hill, Pitchkettle, Regency Estates, Rivercliff, Riverside Estates, Whaleyville, and Wonderland Forest.
Citizens should be aware of this WNV and EEE activity and should take the necessary actions to protect themselves while engaging in outdoor activities.
EEE is a very rare human disease that affects 5 to 10 humans annually in the United States. EEE infection in humans begins with mild flu-like symptoms, progresses into disorientation, seizures, coma, encephalitis (an inflammation of the brain) and in the most severe cases individuals die. Many that survive will have “mild to severe brain damage.”
No human cases of EEE have ever been reported in the City of Suffolk.
Horses are commonly found with EEE in Suffolk. Mosquito Control urges horse owners to vaccinate their horses for EEE and any other insect transmitted diseases that could affect their animals. Properly timed and administrated vaccinations by a licensed veterinarian can mean a healthy horse during the mosquito season.
Mosquito Control operations are intensifying their efforts in these areas as a result of these EEE positive test confirmations.
Increased mosquito surveillance, treatment of standing water, and evening spray applications for adult mosquitoes are also being administered.
