FULTON COUNTY, GA (CBS ATLANTA) -
The Georgia Department of Public Health said mosquito samples in six communities in Fulton County have tested positive for the West Nile Virus.
A sample is a collection of mosquitoes from a particular area that is tested for the virus.
"August begins the peak season for West Nile Virus," said Patrice A. Harris, Director of Fulton County Health Services. "The identification of these samples is a reminder to all of us to take precautions when outdoors."
A positive mosquito sample was found in each of the following areas: Tanyard Creek CSO in Atlanta, Frankie Allen Park, 425 Pharr Rd., N. E., Atlanta, Grove Park, 709 Hortense Place, Atlanta, Ronald Bridges Park, 5285 Lakeside Dr., College Park, Burdett Park, 2945 Burdett Rd., College Park, and Wills Park, 1925 Wills Rd., Alpharetta.
To reduce exposure to mosquitoes and to reduce the risk of West Nile Virus, Fulton County Health Services recommends the following:
- Limit outdoor activity at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active and dress appropriately when outdoors for long periods.
- Use insect repellant with an EPA-approved active ingredient such as DEET, Picaridin or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus. Always follow the directions on the package for the safest and most effective use.
- Remove standing water or treat it with a larvicide to prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs.
- Dump containers such as recycling bins, empty flowerpots and other containers that may collect water.
- Change water in birdbaths or small wading pools at least once a week.
WNV usually infects birds, but it can spread to humans by mosquitoes that feed on infected birds and then bite humans.
For more information on West Nile Virus and prevention methods, call the Mosquito Hotline at 404-730-5296 or contact the Fulton County Health Services, Division of Environmental Health at 404-613-1301, or, you can log on to www.fultoncountygahealth.org.
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