West Nile Virus Arrives in South Carolina

Summer has settled in. It’s been hot and wet. Not all of us love it when it gets this way, but boy the mosquitoes do. It’s this part of summer that we start to hear about West Nile virus cases popping up. It hasn’t happened in Greenville yet, but it is close. On July 10th Us News reported the first human case of West Nile in SC this year on Hilton Head Island. Just seven days after that The State Newspaper reported a bird carrying the virus found in downtown Columbia. Closer and closer it is coming. It is so important to be prepared BEFORE it reaches us.

West Nile virus is transmitted by mosquitoes to birds to people. The Columbia area in which this infected bird was found is a heavily populated area filled with businesses, homes, and popular hangouts. The presence of the virus is a serious public health concern. West Nile doesn’t affect a lot of people, but nonetheless, it has a slight possibility of making someone very sick. Approximately only a fourth of those infected will show symptoms at all. However, 1% of that fourth can suffer from encephalitis, which is dangerous and can be deadly. One preventable death is one too many.

What Can I Do to Prevent West Nile Virus? 

Tracking of the virus helps to keep us protected. Knowing where it is present helps community government and control agencies in planning for area wide treatment when necessary. You can do your part by reporting dead birds in your area to DHEC. Other ways to keep your community safe is by making sure the surroundings are not a breeding ground. Keep areas free of standing water and follow the 5Ts of mosquito control. Follow these at home and maybe even make it a neighborhood project. It certainly benefits everyone to cut down on the mosquito population. When you are spending time outdoors, don’t forget to use your repellent and possibly even cover your arms and legs during the dawn and dusk hours. Avoid bites however you can.

We at Mosquito Squad of Greenville would like to join in your fight. Call us today and let us tell you more about our barrier treatment. It eliminates 85% of mosquitoes on contact and lasts for up to 3 weeks! Call us at (864) 362-2013.