The Loup Basin Public Health Department has reported a positive mosquito finding for West Nile virus in Garfield County. At this time, no positive human cases have been reported in the district. August and September are typically the months in which most human West Nile cases are reported.

West Nile virus symptoms include fever, headaches, body aches, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes swollen lymph glands or a skin rash on the chest, stomach, and back. Symptoms usually last a few days. Severe West Nile Symptoms include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness, and paralysis. Contact your medical provider if you experience these symptoms for a prolonged period of time.

Infected mosquitoes spread the West Nile virus to people after they bite them. By limiting your outdoor time, especially during the mornings and evenings when mosquitoes are most active, you can reduce your chances of being bitten by mosquitoes. You can reduce mosquito bites by wearing lightweight long-sleeved shirts and pants. Use insect repellents containing DEET, IR3535, Oil of Eucalyptus, or Picaridin.

For more information, contact Loup Basin Public Health Department at 308-346-5795, visit our website (www. lbphd.org), or follow us on Facebook.