Press Release
AUGUST 29th, 2003
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
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CONTACT: TIM O’CONNOR
PHONE:561-355-3576
FAX:561- 355-3038
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PALM BEACH COUNTY,
FL-All early detection and sentinel methods for mosquito borne disease continue to confirm the presence of West Nile Virus throughout the county.
Six sentinel chickens from Loxahatchee, Delray Beach, Belle Glade, Pahokee and West Palm Beach were confirmed bringing the total to 24 this summer. Seven other chickens from Boca Raton to Jupiter and West to Belle Glade are presumed positive.
Palm Beach County Health Department Director, Dr. Jean Malecki commented,
"The county remains under a medical alert for mosquito borne disease and I continue to warn all people to prevent mosquitoes from biting. "
Malecki recommends:
- Avoid outdoor activities when mosquitoes are most active (normally at dusk and dawn).
- If you must be outdoors when mosquitoes are active, cover up by wearing shoes, socks, long pants and long-sleeved shirts.
- Use mosquito repellant containing DEET according to the manufacturer's label directions.
- Eliminate stagnant water in birdbaths, ponds and other receptacles in which mosquitoes might breed.
- Be sure doors and window screens are tight fitting and in good repair.
Mosquito Control is continuing its efforts to reduce the mosquito populations throughout the county and are doing target spraying. Problem areas with mosquitoes should be reported to Mosquito Control at 561-967-6480.
The signs and symptoms for West Nile Virus and other mosquito borne diseases may include headache, fever, fatigue, dizziness, weakness and confusion. Persons experiencing these symptoms should seek medical attention.
Those seeking medical advice on mosquito borne diseases can call the Palm Beach County Health Department at 561-840-4564 or the State of Florida Epidemiology Department at 1-888-880-5782.
To report dead wild birds contact the Health Department at 561-355-3070 or Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
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