Chatham County Mosquito Control said that a group of mosquitos from midtown Savannah tested positive for the West Nile Virus (WNV). WNV can be transmitted through the bite of a mosquito, causing mild to severe illness. Mosquitos carrying the virus are said to be more likely to bite at early morning, at dusk and at night.
The Chatham County Health Department and Chatham County Mosquito Control would like residents to remember the five “D”s to prevent the spread of the virus:
● Dusk – Mosquitoes carrying West Nile Virus usually bite at dusk
and dawn.
● Dawn – Avoid outdoor activity at dusk and dawn if possible. If
you must be outside, be sure to protect yourself from bites.
● Dress – Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants to reduce the amount
of exposed skin.
● DEET – Cover exposed skin with an insect repellent containing the
chemical DEET, which is the most effective repellent against mosquito
bites.
● Drain – Empty any containers holding standing water because they
can be excellent breeding grounds for virus-carrying mosquitoes.
