SPRINGFIELD – A suspected case of Zika virus has health officials urging a western Ohio neighborhood to take precautions against mosquitoes, which can spread the virus to people.
The Springfield News-Sun reports the Clark County Combined Health District is awaiting test results for a man who had symptoms of the virus after visiting a Zika hot spot that officials aren’t naming.
District Commissioner Charles Patterson says results could take weeks, so officials are urging precautions in the meantime. They asked the man to remain indoors and take steps to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes if he goes outside. Neighbors were asked to empty any outdoor containers with standing water, one of many precautions health officials say will prevent further mosquito breeding.
“Mosquitoes can carry diseases such as Zika and West Nile, so it’s important to eliminate standing water as soon as possible to reduce their growth,” says Columbus Public Health Commissioner Dr. Teresa Long. “What residents do today will be critical to the number of mosquitoes in our community this summer.”
Mosquito prevention:
Empty, remove, cover or turn over containers that can hold water.
Treat rain barrels every month with Mosquito Dunks.
Change the water in wading pools weekly and store indoors when not in use.
Properly dispose of old tires.
Empty planters and bird baths often.
Empty and refill pets’ watering dishes daily.
Use sand to plug holes in trees where water can collect.
Repair leaky pipes and outside faucets.
Make sure gutters and downspouts are free of leaves and debris, and are properly draining.
Drain or fill low areas on your property that hold water for more than five days.
Remind or help neighbors eliminate breeding sites on their property.
-Source: Columbus Public Health
Patterson says it’s Ohio’s third suspected Zika case this year. Ohio had 95 last year.