DAVIS COUNTY—The Davis County Health Department (DCHD) has issued a warning to residents to take precautions against West Nile Virus (WNV). Human cases have been reported throughout the state and DCHD has three reported cases, two were hospitalized and the third passed away, a DCHD release said.

Commonly WNV is spread to humans through a bite from an infected mosquito. Generally most people who have been infected don’t develop symptoms. For some it can cause a mild illness but in others it can be severe.

According to the DCHD, it is estimated that less than 1% of people infected with WNV will

develop the neuroinvasive form of the disease which can cause debilitating long-term

complications or death.

Symptoms of WNV infection appear within two to 14 days of a mosquito bite they include: 

• Fever, headache, and body aches. 
• More severe infections may include high fever, neck stiffness, disorientation, coma, tremors, and muscle weakness or convulsions.
• People over age 60 and people with weakened immune systems are at the highest risk of illness but anyone can become ill from the bite of an infected mosquito. 

There is no specific treatment for WNV infection other than to treat symptoms, the DCHD release said. 

If you or someone you know thinks they have a WNV infection, DCHD recommends contacting their healthcare provider.

DCHD offers the following tips on how residents can protect themselves from WNV:

• Use an EPA-registered mosquito repellent with DEET, permethrin, picaridin, IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus; follow package directions about application.
• After dusk, wear long sleeves and pants. Make sure they are loose-fitting and light in color.
• When possible, avoid prolonged outdoor activity at dawn and dusk.
• Drain standing water in yards (old tires, potted plant trays, pet dishes, toys, buckets, etc.).
• Keep roof gutters clear of debris.
• Ensure door and window screens are in good condition so mosquitoes cannot get inside.
• Keep weeds and tall grass cut short; adult mosquitoes look for these shady places to rest during the hot daylight hours.

Mosquito Abatement District-Davis, has found positive pools of mosquitoes in every portion of Davis County, according to DCHD. If you would like to request an inspection where an employee can check your property for things like standing water and mosquito sources/locations, call their office at (801) 544-3736.