AUBURN – Mosquito traps in Richardson County have tested positive for West Nile virus.
Grant Brueggemann of Southeast District Health Department said two contractors have been placing mosquito traps in Richardson, Otoe, Nemaha and Pawnee counties since June and these are the first two traps to capture mosquitoes carrying the virus.
The virus is not transmitted person-to-person, but can be transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito.
While most people infected with the virus show no symptoms, some may have high fever, severe headache, tiredness and/or a stiff neck that can last several days to several weeks.
The most serious cases of West Nile virus infection can lead to encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain, which can be fatal.
Last year, there were 68 human cases in Nebraska and two deaths attributed to West Nile virus.
The health district recommends wearing long-sleeved shirts, using repellant, limiting outdoor activity when mosquitoes are most active and draining standing water.
Mosquito Traps Find West Nile Virus In Southeast District
