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8th human case of the West Nile Virus reported in Duval County

The Florida Department of Health has confirmed another human case of the West Nile Virus in Duval County.
Credit: frank600
(Credit: Thinkstock)

The Florida Department of Health has confirmed another human case of the West Nile Virus in Duval County.

With this new case, there are eight total number of human cases reported in the Jacksonville area.

Duval's Department of Health has advised the public to "drain and cover" in an effort to protect themselves from mosquito-borne illnesses.

The DOH says Residents should drain standing water to keep mosquitos from multiplying. This includes:

  • Draining water from garbage cans, house gutters, buckets, pool covers, coolers, toys, flower pots or any other container where sprinkler or rainwater can accumulate
  • Discarding old tires, drums, bottles, cans, pots and pans, broken appliances and other items that are not being used
  • Emptying and cleaning birdbaths and pet's water bowls at least once or twice a week
  • Protecting boats and vehicles from rain with tarps that won't accumulate water

Residents should also cover themselves by:

  • Wearing shoes, socks, long pants and long sleeves, especially for people who work in areas where mosquitos are present
  • Applying repellent to bare skin and clothing
  • Using mosquito netting to protect children younger than two months old

Doors and windows should also be covered with screens to keep mosquitos out of your home, according to the DOH.

For information on West Nile virus and how to protect against it, click here.

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