The Medina County Health Department received confirmation on August 13th that a sample of mosquitos taken from Memorial Park in Wadsworth has tested positive for West Nile Virus.
This is the first positive test result that the Medina County Health Department has received this year.
Environmental Health Director Colin Johnson says “the results are not surprising. Not only have we had a rainy spring and summer, but we’ve increased our surveillance program in an effort to provide more information and education about West Nile Virus. Essentially, we found a positive sample because we were looking for one”.
Johnson say “there’s no reason for residents of Wadsworth to change their daily activities. We just want to remind them to take precautions before heading out at dusk and dawn when mosquitos are most active”.
The Medina County Health Department along with the city of Wadsworth will identify and treat areas of standing water in Memorial Park.
Among the ways to prevent mosquito bites and West Nile Virus are:
*Use mosquito repellent containing 30% or less DEET.
*Remove areas of standing water such as in bird baths, wading pools, tires, buckets, clogged drain pipes and ditches.
*Wear light-colored clothing, long-sleeved shirts or jackets and long pants.
*Avoid mosquito infested areas.
*Use mosquito netting if sleeping outdoors.
*Avoid physical exertion and wear colognes and/or perfumes.
