The D.C. Department of Health (DOH) recently confirmed that there is now a single human case of the West Nile Virus in Washington, D.C. The resident's health was monitored, improved, and he or she was later released from a local hospital. The virus is transmitted through mosquitos, which are most active in the summer months. The DOH will continue conducting the Arbovirus Surveillance and Response Plan and the West Nile Surveillance Program in all eight Wards. The yearly program features prevention, control, and response components. The symptoms of West Nile Virus include a fever, headache, body aches, fatigue, back pain, and occasionally a skin rash, eye pain, and swollen lymph glands, according to Mayo Clinic. DOH recommends these preventative measures against mosquito bites: apply insect repellants to exposed areas of the body, eliminate standing water on property, fix dripping water faucets outside, and store pet food and water bowls inside when not in use. For more information, visit the DOH website or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. You can also call (202) 535-2323 from 8:15 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.
· District of Columbia Confirms One Human Case of West Nile Virus [D.C. Department of Health]
· West Nile Virus Symptoms [Mayo Clinic]
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