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Saturday, September 8, 2001

Virus alert creeps closer to Volusia, Flagler counties

By DINAH VOYLES PULVER | News-Journal Environment Writer

DAYTONA BEACH — An alert for mosquito-borne viruses crept closer to Volusia and Flagler counties Friday with news that the West Nile virus has been discovered in Marion County.

State health officials added Marion to the list of 34 other Florida counties under the alert when a horse and a bird in northern Marion were diagnosed with the West Nile virus.

So far this summer, four people in Florida have been diagnosed with West Nile and three with Eastern equine encephalitis, another mosquito-borne disease.

However, no humans, birds or horses in Volusia or Flagler counties have tested positive for either of the viruses.

"All of our tests have been negative," Joe Cash, director of the East Flagler Mosquito Control District, said Friday.

Still, residents throughout the state, particularly the elderly, should take extra precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes, state health officials said.

"Since there is evidence that the virus is present in Marion County, we want residents and visitors to renew their efforts to take personal precautions against mosquito bites to prevent disease," said Dr. Steven Wiersma, state epidemiologist.

The state also will intensify its surveillance for human cases and dead bird cases in Central and South Florida, Wiersma said.

With all the rain this week, Cash said the mosquito populations will likely rise in the next week or so.

Residents should be alert for possible mosquito breeding grounds in their yards and dump out any standing water in flower pots, boats or other items that might hold even small amounts of water, state health officials said Friday.

Residents also are told to avoid being outdoors at dusk and dawn when virus-carrying mosquitoes are apt to be out looking for blood meals. Those who have to be outdoors when mosquitoes are active are advised to wear shoes, socks, long pants and long-sleeved shirts and use repellant that contains DEET.

Across the state this summer, the West Nile virus has been confirmed in 52 horses and 91 birds, while 23 horses and eight birds have been diagnosed with Eastern equine encephalitis.

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