Since we live in a dry city with no water, nobody expects mosquitoes here compared to other places. However, within the last month, we have seen rising cases of the West Nile Virus in our city. Where did they come from? Are we able to avoid the mosquitoes and the virus?
These mosquitoes originated in the early 2000s when they first appeared in New York. Over time, they have spread throughout the country by infecting birds and other mosquitoes. This trend would continue to spread the virus to all parts with habitable environments. Recently, we have seen a rise in mosquito populations in the valley due to climate change and the recent flooding season.
Adding on, while it is true that there have been rising cases of mosquito outbreaks in our city, only a few specific spots are affected. This includes the wetlands around our valley and other Stillwater spots. Mosquitoes also spawn in places of our homes, this includes pools, waterbeds, and water gardens. So, there aren’t too many places to encounter these mosquitoes in the dry valley, as their breeding grounds are quite rare.
Also, only very few mosquitoes carry the virus. Scientists have concluded that only a few hundred pools of mosquitoes out of twenty thousand carry the West Nile. This, and the fact that they live in certain areas, makes it extremely rare.
There are precautions you can take to avoid getting bitten, though; repellents are available at local pharmacies and stores that help protect you from bites. If you are bitten and contract the virus, the symptoms themselves are not severe. They are generally treatable by rest and let your body work through it,
In conclusion, it is not that big of a worry. You can easily avoid it through various means such as repellent or avoiding areas with still water. If you get bit, you can easily recover in most cases. So, enjoy your summer mosquito and West Nile free!
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