Community Corner

West Nile Virus Detected in DC and Virginia

Keeping mosquito populations in check can improve chances that it won't come to Maryland.

West Nile Virus was detected in mosquitoes in three neighborhoods in the District of Columbia this week according to the Washington, DC Department of Health.

The virus is a seasonal epidemic that begins in summer and lasts into the fall. Mosquitoes with the virus can infect birds and humans—especially those who are elderly or have a compromised immune system.

The virus has been detected in Virginia (Henrico County), but not yet in Maryland.

Find out what's happening in Bowiewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The virus is spread through mosquito bites. The virus can not be spread from person to person. Symptoms appear in three to 14 days.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the best way to prevent the spread of West Nile Virus is to use insect repellant—preferably one that contains DEET—when you go outdoors and rid your garden of mosquito breeding sites (standing water). To do this:

Find out what's happening in Bowiewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

  • Empty standing water from flower pots, buckets and barrels
  • Change the water in pet dishes and replace the water in bird baths weekly
  • Drill holes in tire swings so water drains out
  • Keep children's wading pools empty and on their sides when not in use

According to the CDC, about one in 150 people infected with West Nile Virus will develop a severe illness that includes high fever, headache, neck stiffness, coma, tremors, vision loss and paralysis. The symptoms can last weeks. Up to 20 percent of people who become infected have milder symptoms that can last a few days. The remaining 80 percent of people have no symptoms at all.

Typically, those infected with the virus do not need to seek medical treatment. There is no cure for West Nile Virus. Severe symptoms and complications from the illness may require hospital care and intravenous fluids.

The Maryland Department of Health (MD-DOH) maintains a database of West Nile Virus activity. The MD-DOH can help with mosquito eradication. To report complaints about standing water, call the Prince George's County Health Department at 301-883-7879.

If you find a dead bird, which is often a sign that West Nile has come to the area, please do the following:

  • Wear plastic or latex gloves or use a plastic bag as a glove.
  • With your gloved hand, place or wrap the bird in a plastic bag and tie the bag securely (alternatively, a shovel may be used to pick up bird).
  • Dispose of the bag (and gloves) in an outdoor trash receptacle.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water.

Sick or injured birds should be reported to your local wildlife rehabilitator. Call 877-463-6497 for a list of licensed rehabilitators or visit the Maryland Department of Natural Resources website.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here