DOH-Alachua Issues Mosquito-Borne Illness Alert
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Alachua, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Alachua County (DOH-Alachua) is informing residents of a second confirmed case of locally-acquired West Nile virus. DOH-Alachua and Alachua County, City of Gainesville, City of Alachua, and City of Newberry Mosquito Control are coordinating surveillance and prevention efforts by treating county-maintained retention basins and spraying in targeted areas.
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-Alachua 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-Alachua at 352-334-7900.
