West Nile Virus In Hendry County

Five Sentinel Chickens Tested Positive

LABELLE, FL. -- The Hendry Health Department advises that there has been increased mosquito-borne disease activity in areas of Hendry County. Five sentinel chickens in the LaBelle area have tested positive for West Nile virus. The risk of transmission to humans has been increased according to a press release.

The Hendry County Health Department reminds residents and visitors to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes that may cause encephalitis disease.  The Hendry County Health Department will continue with surveillance and encourage everyone to take basic precautions to help limit exposure by following the department of health recommendations.

To protect yourself from mosquitoes, you should remember to practice the 5 D's:

Dusk and Dawn ­ Avoid being outdoors when mosquitoes are seeking blood.
Dress ­ Wear clothing that covers most of your skin.
DEET ­ When the potential exists for exposure to mosquitoes, repellents containing up to 30 percent DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide) are recommended.  Other effective mosquito repellents include picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, and IR3535. Some repellents are not suitable for children. 
Drainage ­ Check around your home to rid the area of standing water, where mosquitoes lay eggs.