Nebraska is reporting its first human case of West Nile Virus this year, a case officials will only say came from the area of Hall, Merrick and Hamilton counties. Kim Buser is a registered nurse with Public Health Solutions Health District, in southeast Nebraska.
Buser says most of the mosquitoes that are buzzing around Nebraska right now are the type that does not carry the virus, but she urges people to take precautions when they’re outside.
Buser says every county in Nebraska is experiencing above-average mosquito counts, with some experiencing far-above-average numbers, and there is a statewide mosquito monitoring program that involves the trapping of the tiny, flying pests.
Buser says property owners should remove standing water and keep vegetation trimmed, as ways to remove potential breeding area for mosquitoes. Old tires, flower pots, buckets, cans and birdbaths are among the areas where mosquitoes can breed. When outside, you should use an insect repellant containing DEET and wear long-sleeve shirts and long pants, especially during dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most prevalent.
