Mosquito pool tests positive for West Nile virus in Madison County

NORFOLK, Neb. -- A public health district in northeast Nebraska announced Friday that a mosquito pool has tested positive for West Nile virus.

The infected mosquito pool was collected from a trap in Madison County which was collected on August 23rd as part of the department’s ongoing mosquito surveillance efforts, according to the Elkhorn Logan Valley Public Health Department.

ELVPHD said it is asking for the area's assistance in preventing mosquitoes, including removing standing water, improving sanitation, wearing long clothing and using mosquito repellent.

According to the CDC, the West Nile Virus is usually spread to people by the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds. Infected mosquitoes then spread West Nile virus to people and other animals by biting them.

Cases of WNV occur during mosquito season, which starts in the summer and continues through fall. There are no vaccines to prevent or medications to treat WNV in people. Most people infected with WNV do not feel sick. About 1 in 5 people who are infected develop a fever and other symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea or rash. About 1 in 150 people who are infected develop a severe illness affecting the central nervous system such as encephalitis.