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For Immediate Release: August 3, 2006
Contact: Mr. Brian Collins
Director of Health
Phone: 972-941-7143
Second Human Case of West Nile Virus Reported in Plano
Plano Health Department Closely Monitoring Mosquito Population
A second case of West Nile Virus contracted by a human has been reported in Plano zip code 75074, confirmed by Collin County Health Care Services August 2, 2006. The first case of human-contracted West Nile Virus was confirmed on July 31, 2006 in Plano zip code 75075.
The Plano Health Department is increasing its testing of mosquitoes in the area and will be closely monitoring the need for additional mosquito larvicide or spraying measures. Vigilance in prevention of mosquito bites is warranted.
The risk of West Nile transmission increases during the months of August and September due to an increase in the Culex mosquito population, which thrives in hot weather and may carry the Virus after biting infected birds.
The best prevention against any mosquito-borne disease is to take precautions not to be bitten and to implement appropriate measures to reduce the mosquito population. Mosquitoes need standing water to lay their eggs, producing adults in just ten days in hot temperatures.
Remove any stagnant or standing water sources. Keep swimming pools treated and circulating, and rain gutters unclogged. Water in bird baths, fountains, animal bowls, and wading pools should be changed at least weekly following Stage 3 watering restrictions. Anything that can contain and hold water (cans, empty flower pots, plant saucers, toys) should be removed from outdoors, turned upside down, or emptied weekly. Remove sagging areas from tarps, and cover boats and canoes with tight-fitting tarps or turn upside down for storage.
Watch for standing water in yard indentions, drainage ditches and check French drains or pool traps for standing water, cleaning them out weekly, or adding a larvacide “donut” to kill any larvae.
To learn more about West Nile Virus and City of Plano vector control, go to: www.plano.gov/Departments/Health/WNV.htm
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