Stay safe during Fair time

Panhandle Public Health District reminds those enjoying the festivities this week to stay healthy during the county fair.

Because many events take place near dusk when mosquitos are most active, PPHD wants the public to remember to protect themselves against the bugs. Mosquito pools in multiple areas of the panhandle have tested positive for West Nile virus. There have been more than 33 positive tests across the state.

“We’re seeing a huge increase in West Nile virus,” said Tabi Prochazka, environmental health coordinator at PPHD.

She predicts that this number will continue to rise during next round of test pools.

“August is always the busiest mosquito month,” she said.

PPHD advises those attending the fair to use DEET repellent to help avoid bites and subsequent infection. PPHD is providing DEET towelettes to the public at all area county fairs, including the Cheyenne County fair.

“West Nile Virus is transmitted through the bite of a mosquito that has picked up the virus by feeding on an infected bird,” Prochazka said in a press release. “In turn, the mosquito can pass the virus to humans.”

Although the city began its annual mosquito spraying last weekend, both the city and PPHD advise citizens to continue to take their own precautions against West Nile by avoiding the outdoors at dawn and dusk and using a DEET repellant if going out is unavoidable.

So far there have been two confirmed human cases of West Nile virus in Nebraska, neither of which were in the panhandle.

West Nile can cause symptoms similar to the flu like fever and muscle weakness. The virus can also incite more severe reactions like encephalitis. Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain which can cause disorientation, convulsions and paralysis. Those who have a compromised immune system or who are older than 50 can be more susceptible to the disease and its effects. There were multiple confirmed human cases of West Nile virus in the panhandle last year. Mosquitos will stay active until the first freeze.

Hand sanitizer is also available at area county fairs courtesy of PPHD near animals and food vendors.

When to wash or sanitize your hands:

• Right after petting animals, touching the animal enclosure, and exiting animal areas even if you did not touch an animal,

• After playing a game or going on a ride,

• Before eating and drinking, or preparing food or drinks, and

• After using the restroom, changing diapers, and or removing soiled clothes.

-Courtesy of PPHD