West Nile Virus Returns to Branson

By Mindy Honey BDN Society Editor Mosquitoes captured in three different areas in Branson have tested positive for the West Nile virus, Taney County Health Department officials reported this week. This is the first time since 2005 that any mosquitoes have tested positive for the virus. "The chances of becoming ill from West Nile virus are low," said Robert Niezgoda, Taney County Health Department epidemiologist. "Less than 1 percent of people who are bitten by an infected mosquito will develop illness and very few will develop serious illness." Mosquitoes that tested positive for West Nile were collected from the areas of Canal Street, Compton Drive and Rinehart Road in Branson. According to Niezgoda, there are no confirmed cases of human West Nile virus. Statewide this year, there have not been any human cases of West Nile, either. Each summer, between June 1 and the end of September, the health department sets mosquito traps throughout the Branson area. After 24 hours, a health department employee collects the mosquitoes, then sends them to the Southeast State University lab for testing. "The season is in full swing for mosquitoes and this is the time of year to wear repellent and eliminate mosquito breeding areas around your home and community," said Kim Foster, Taney County Health Department environmental specialist. Emptying standing or stagnant water from cans, bottles, old tires or wading pools help eliminate areas in which mosquitoes breed. Health department officials report that mosquitoes' favorite time to feed is between dusk and dawn. Anyone outside during that time should protect themselves by wearing long sleeves and using insect repellent containing DEET, officials said. http://MissouriNetizen.com http://www.bransonedge.com http://bransonmissouri.missourinetizen.com