CENTRAL PALM BEACH COUNTY, FL—-The first case of West Nile Virus in two years has turned up in Palm Beach County.
It was discovered in sentinel chickens, according to the Palm Beach County Health Department.
It's the first confirmation since November, 2007.
According to the Centers for Disease Control the simplest and best way to avoid the illness is to prevent mosquito bites.
“We are constantly monitoring chickens we have placed throughout the county,” said Health Director Dr. Alina Alonso in a written release.
To avoid being bitten the Palm Beach County Health Department advises:
Limit your exposure by not going outside at dusk or dawn.
If you are outside, avoid getting bitten by wearing long sleeves, long pants, & socks.
Use an insect repellant containing DEET.
Drain any standing water from around your dwelling
Ground spraying in Central Palm Beach County has been scheduled.
Mosquitoes are not prevalent this time of year and the health department says conditions are not favorable for increased numbers.
