The health department is seeing a surge in West Nile Virus cases. There have been 30-cases statewide. 14-of those were right here in Tulsa county.
Channel 8's Kim Jackson explains the increase and what's being done for safety.
,here in Tulsa experts use these traps to catch mosquitoes, not only to test them for West Nile Virus, but to count them. In July there nearly 400 complaints.
While the complaints come in, field workers are checking testing sites, located all over the county.
So far they have found more than 30-samples containing West Nile.
"We had our first positive round of mosquitoes the first week in July,' said John Baker, an environmental specialist.
Workers have been spraying to combat the problem. But standing water is a breeding ground.
Tulsa county saw it's first case of West Nile, this year since 2008.
"We've had a few positives field pools but nothing like what we are getting already this year, just the mosquito population alone last year was small," said Baker.
This year they've seen more mosquitoes and more West Nile. Here's one possibility.
"Due to the fact West Nile can present itself with mild flu like symptoms, it could be that people experience West Nile but don't realize what it is so they don't go to the doctor to get test for it or anything. They just think it is a mild flu," said Kelly Van Buskirk, of the Health Department.
West Nile effects older people and those with compromised immune systems the worst.
The illness can be diagnosed. There is no cure for the virus, but the symptoms, headaches, vomiting and fevers can be treated.
Families shouldn't be afraid, experts say. But they should prevent a mosquitoes bite if they can.
"Try to not go outside during dusk and dawn. If you are gonna be out during those times when mosquitoes are at the highest, then wear long sleeves and long pants clothing to ho help prevent it," said Van Buskirk.
The health department is spraying for mosquitoes. But current dry conditions are actually good for mosquitoes control.
After each rain, check your back yard for stagnant water. That includes your children's toys or anything that can hold one inch of water.
