HP Mosquitos Test Positive for West Nile Virus
Highland Park began ground spraying again after a mosquito sample on the east side of town tested positive for West Nile Virus. In accordance with the town’s mosquito control policy, crews sprayed public rights-of-way and the town’s tennis courts between 10 p.m. Thursday and 5 a.m. Friday. Spraying efforts will continue at the same time through Sunday morning.
Town officials recommend people and pets stay indoors while their area is being sprayed. Residents are also asked to eliminate standing water, which is where mosquitos are most likely to lay eggs.
West Nile Virus is transmitted through mosquito bites. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately one in five people infected with the virus develop symptoms such as fever, headaches, body aches, joint aches, vomiting, diarrhea or rash. Fatigue and weakness associated with the illness can last for weeks or even months.
Less than one percent of people infected with West Nile Virus develop a serious neurologic illness like encephalitis or meningitis.
