DOH-Duval Issues Mosquito-Borne Illness Alert
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Duval County, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Duval County (DOH-Duval) is informing residents of a second confirmed case of locally-acquired West Nile virus. DOH-Duval and Jacksonville Mosquito Control are coordinating surveillance and prevention efforts by ground spraying.
Many people who are infected with West Nile virus do not get sick; however, some people may have symptoms including, but not limited to, fever, headache, body aches, weakness, rash, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Less common symptoms include neck stiffness, altered mental status, and disorientation. Symptoms of West Nile virus can appear anytime between two to 14 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. West Nile virus is not contagious between people, but it is transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito.
DOH-Duval reminds the community to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes by taking these basic precautions.
The Department continues to conduct statewide surveillance for mosquito-borne illnesses, including West Nile virus, Eastern equine encephalitis, St. Louis encephalitis, malaria, chikungunya, and dengue. Residents of Florida are encouraged to report dead birds to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
If you are experiencing any symptoms, please call DOH-Duval at 904-253-1850.
