St. Louis Counthy, Mo (KSDK) -- A 51-year-old North County man is the first reported human case of West Nile Virus in St. Louis County this year.
In 2009, the county had one confirmed human case of the virus.
"Even though serious West Nile Virus cases in humans are rare, it is important to minimize our exposure," said Dr. Dolores J. Gunn, Director of the Health Department. "We can do this by eliminating opportunities for mosquitoes to breed and multiply and protect ourselves by using repellants."
Residents can take steps to reduce the opportunities for mosquitoes to flourish and to minimize their chances of being bitten while outside:
At least once a week, drain water from garbage cans, buckets, toys, flowerpots, wading pools, pet dishes, and other objects that can collect water. Change water in birdbaths at least once a week.
Keep gutters cleaned out and repair any tears in door and window screens.
Look for products containing the active ingredient methoprene or Bti (Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis) to place in birdbaths or ponds, to prevent mosquitoes from developing.
Flexible drainage pipe is commonly used to drain water from downspouts. A big drawback is that it holds water and breeds mosquitoes if not properly sloped when installed.
Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and light colors outdoors.
Spray clothing with repellents containing DEET or picaridin.
For more information on mosquito prevention, contact the County Vector Control office at (314) 727-3097 or log onto: www.stlouisco.com/doh/vector/vector.html.
KSDK