We’ve reported on the West Nile Virus a number of times. We have highlighted when West Nile Virus was first reported in Tennessee. In the latest mosquito and West Nile Virus news the Knox County Health Department announced that is going to be spraying for mosquitoes in the West Hills and West Kingston Pike areas.
They will be spraying from 9pm to midnight. This is after mosquitoes would complete one of their most active period of feeding and laying eggs (dusk). The other active period is dawn.
(WBIR – KNOXVILLE) A second round of spraying for mosquitoes will take place, weather permitting, 9 p.m. to midnight Thursday in the Tower Drive area of North Knoxville.
The Knox County Health Department conducted an initial round of spraying Aug. 30 in the area.
Also, the West Hills and West Kingston Pike areas are scheduled for follow-up spraying 9 pm. to midnight Sept. 17.
The Health Department is asking residents in those areas to avoid going outside and keep pets indoors during spraying.
The Health Department only sprays when mosquitoes test positive in an area for the West Nile virus, which has been reported in several humans in Tennessee including Blount County.
West Nile can cause illness in humans, including fever.
Less than 1 percent of infected people develop a serious, sometimes fatal neurologic illness, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
If you are in areas that are heavily populated with mosquitoes then it is a good idea to protect yourself and your family. Put on some longer sleeved clothing and pants, put on mosquito repellent with DEET. Go through some of the preventative measures around your home to keep mosquitoes away. You can even suggest similar prevention measures to your work facility teams.
If you find yourself displaying symptoms of West Nile Virus seek medical assistance immediately.
UPDATE from WBIR:
The new areas are at and around Milligan Street in East Knoxville and the East Emory Road area of North Knox County. Spraying will be 9 p.m. to midnight there, weather permitting.
The Health Department reminds residents to stay inside and keep their pets inside while spraying is going on.
Signs will be posted in affected areas to alert residents.