Pensacola, Fla.—The Florida Department of Health in Escambia County (DOH-Escambia) is informing residents of a second confirmed case of locally-acquired West Nile virus. DOH-Escambia and Escambia County Mosquito Control are coordinating surveillance and prevention efforts by utilizing targeted mitigation activities including aerial spraying, field inspections, and biological, chemical, and physical control measures.

Many people who are infected with West Nile virus do not get sick; however, some people may have symptoms including, but not limited to, fever, headache, body aches, weakness, rash, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Less common symptoms include neck stiffness, altered mental status, and disorientation. Symptoms of West Nile virus can appear anytime between 2 to 14 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. West Nile virus is not contagious between people, but it is transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito.

DOH-Escambia reminds the community to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes by taking these basic precautions. 

The Department continues to conduct statewide surveillance for mosquito-borne illnesses, including West Nile virus infections, Eastern equine encephalitis, St. Louis encephalitis, malaria, chikungunya, and dengue. Residents of Florida are encouraged to report dead birds to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s site.

For more information, visit the Department’s website or view the weekly mosquito-borne illness surveillance reports. If you are experiencing any symptoms, please contact your healthcare provider.

### 

About the Florida Department of Health

The Department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote, and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county, and community efforts.