Lubbock mosquitoes have been confirmed to be carrying the harmful West Nile Virus, prompting officials to urge the public to spot the symptoms and destroy nests. The City of Lubbock Public Health Department is warning residents to take precautions against mosquito bites, which can transmit the virus.
How to Protect Yourself
According to the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), symptoms of West Nile Virus vary from mild to severe and can include headache, diarrhea, fits of vomiting, or a rash. More severe symptoms include high fever, neck stiffness, muscle weakness, confusion, and tremors. To limit the risk of getting bitten by a mosquito, residents are advised to wear long-sleeve shirts and pants when outside during times of high mosquito traffic, and to avoid having standing water on their property.
The City of Lubbock Public Health Department also recommends using EPA-registered repellents on dark humid areas of properties, such as under patio furniture and in garages. Residents can stay informed about the West Nile Virus situation by following the Health Department’s Facebook page.
Original reporting: News/Talk 790 KFYO (Lubbock) — read the source article.