Most people infected with WNV will have no symptoms at all. Some people will have mild symptoms such as fever, nausea, rash, and some will develop serious disease that can include high fever, convulsions, paralysis, and, in some cases, lasting neurological effects or death. People who develop symptoms that could be from severe WNV illness, such as unusually severe headaches or confusion, should seek medical attention immediately.

Most WNV infections occur May through November, peaking in August and September. Most people with WNV are infected through the bite of an infected mosquito. It is not spread person-to-person by casual contact.

There is no specific cure for WNV once a person becomes infected. The most effective way to reduce the risk of WNV is prevention. The best prevention method is Tip and Toss, which helps eliminate standing water where mosquitoes breed.

Individuals should take steps to minimize their exposure to mosquitoes during outside activities the remainder of the summer season, especially during dusk and dawn. Below are tips to help eliminate mosquito breeding and reduce the risk of mosquito-borne disease:

• Use the “tip and toss” method once per week throughout the summer and fall. Tip out water in flowerpots, planters, children’s toys, wading pools, buckets and any containers that can hold water, even a small amount, including saucers under flower pots.
• When possible, drain any standing water on your property such as puddles and ditches that hold water for more than four days after rain.
• Use insect repellent containing DEET when outdoors, which also repels ticks. Remember to always follow product directions.
• Wear long sleeves and pants after dark, when the WNV mosquitoes are most active, or stay indoors during these hours.
• Store out-of-service or un-mounted tires under cover to prevent the collection of any water.
• Change the water in bird baths and pet bowls at least twice a week.
• Keep gutters clean and in good repair, and repair leaky outdoor faucets.
• Make sure rain barrels have tight-fitting screens or lids.
• Use screened windows and doors, and make sure screens fit tightly and are not torn.

There is no vaccine for WNV in people, but vaccines are available to prevent WNV in horses. If you are a horse owner, consult your veterinarian regarding proper protective vaccines for your horses and change the water in water troughs at least twice a week to discourage mosquito breeding.

Mosquito dunks are available to Cabarrus County residents at the following locations:

• CHA Kannapolis – 300 Mooresville Rd. Kannapolis, NC 28081
• CHA Brown Mill – 526 Cabarrus Ave. W. Concord, NC 28027
• Harrisburg Town Hall – 4100 Main St. Harrisburg, NC 28075
• Mount Pleasant Town Hall – 8590 Park Dr. Mount Pleasant, NC 28124

Supplies are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Mosquito dunks can also be purchased at most major retailers.

For more information regarding mosquitoes or mosquito control activities in your area, please contact Cabarrus Health Alliance’s Environmental Health Department (704) 920-1207 or visit https://www.cabarrushealth.org/176/Mosquito-Prevention to submit a mosquito service request online.