CHARLOTTE — Mecklenburg County Public Health has confirmed three human cases of West Nile Virus in the county.
Multiple pools of mosquitoes collected locally have also tested positive for the virus ahead of the Labor Day weekend.
Nearby counties are also reporting increased West Nile virus activity as health officials encourage residents to limit exposure during outdoor activities.
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Most people infected with West Nile virus experience no symptoms or a mild, flu-like illness. However, some individuals develop a fever accompanied by a headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. There are currently no West Nile vaccines licensed for use in humans and no medications to cure the disease.
The Mecklenburg County Public Health Department conducts community canvassing on mosquito prevention and investigates complaints through its Environmental Health hotline at (980) 314-1620.
Health officials advise residents to reduce mosquito breeding by emptying standing water from flowerpots, gutters, buckets, pool covers, pet water dishes, discarded tires, and birdbaths at least once a week.
Public Health also recommends using EPA-registered mosquito repellent, installing or repairing window and door screens, and wearing long sleeves and pants at dusk and dawn.