WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – Palm Beach County health officials announced a human case of the locally acquired West Nile virus Monday.
The case was discovered after the victim donated blood last week, testing positive for West Nile antibodies.
The Florida Department of Health informed residents that there has been a recent increase in the activity of mosquito-borne diseases in areas of Palm Beach County.
Experts said there is a “greater concern” that additional residents may become ill from the West Nile.
The Palm Beach County Mosquito Control and Health Department said surveillance and prevention efforts continue to reduce mosquito-borne diseases.
“We looked for mosquito larvae, and they treated several different areas and waves on the road that were putting out mosquitoes. On top of that, we are launching the ULV, the ultra low volume spray trucks, to spray adult mosquitoes, “said Chris Reisinger of Palm Beach County Mosquito Control.
Most West Nile virus infections, about 80 percent, are asymptomatic, according to health experts. Those who develop symptoms generally experience headache, fever, pain, and fatigue.
The best way to avoid mosquito bites is to wear long sleeves, light colors, use insect repellent, or stay indoors.
The last human cases of West Nile Virus in Palm Beach County were two in 2018, however, both were imported cases.
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