MYRTLE BEACH, SC — The South Carolina Department of Public Health has confirmed two cases of West Nile virus in Myrtle Beach, prompting the city to expand mosquito control operations during the height of mosquito season.
City officials said crews are increasing aerial spraying to target adult mosquitoes, treating standing water with larvicide briquettes and assisting state health officials with mosquito trapping for testing and surveillance. Myrtle Beach’s weekly citywide spraying program, which began in May, continues throughout mosquito season.
Residents are encouraged to help reduce mosquito populations around their homes by following DPH recommendations. Officials advise eliminating standing water in flowerpots, toys, buckets, gutters, pet bowls, pool covers, old tires and other containers where mosquitoes can breed. DPH also recommends applying insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR3535 according to label directions, wearing clothing that reduces exposed skin and limiting exposure during peak mosquito activity, particularly in the early morning. Some mosquito species also bite during the day, especially in wooded or shaded areas. Doors and windows should be fitted with tight screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering homes.
Health officials say residents should remain vigilant and take simple precautions to reduce the risk of mosquito bites for the remainder of mosquito season.
West Nile virus is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito and is not transmitted from person to person.
Most people infected do not develop symptoms. About one in five people may develop an illness within two to 14 days that can include fever, headache, joint pain, muscle pain and, in some cases, nausea and vomiting. The risk of serious illness remains low.
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