West Nile virus detected at Langley Air Force Base
Published in Health & Fitness
HAMPTON, Va. — West Nile virus was found on a mosquito Tuesday at Langley Air Force Base, according to a social media post by the base.
It was detected by Joint Base Langley-Eustis Pest Management. For treatment, ground fogging operations will start at about 7 p.m. Wednesday. This will be done with a truck-mounted “fogging” machine that spreads pesticides.
This virus, which is mostly spread through bites of infected mosquitos, can cause West Nile fever, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About 20% of infected people develop the fever, which comes with headaches, body aches, joint pains, vomiting or a rash. About 80% of infected people are asymptomatic, but about 1 in 150 people experience symptoms including a high fever, neck stiffness, disorientation or muscle weakness.
The pesticide spread by the fogging machine is relatively safe for people and pets, and is approved by both the Environmental Protection Agency and the state of Virginia, but anyone with allergies, respiratory conditions or young people should stay inside while this occurs. Once the fog dissipates, it does not leave a residue and is safe.
These fogging operations were previously scheduled for next week and will still occur Aug. 4. The city of Hampton is also spraying for mosquitoes Thursday night.
Although no virus has been found at Fort Eustis, people managing pest management will continue to monitor the insects in the area, starting Thursday through Sept. 1.
The best way to prevent this virus is to prevent mosquito bites, which can be done by using an insect repellant, wearing long clothing and avoiding being outside between dusk and dawn when the bugs are most active.
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