Protection against West Nile Virus encouraged

As many people most likely are spending some time outdoors this summer, state officials urge caution of the ever present West Nile Virus, transmitted by mosquitoes.  South Dakota State University Extension pesticide education and field specialist Dr. Amanda Bachmann says that people need to protect themselves against West Nile Virus.

Bachmann says at this point, research shows the virus that causes COVID-19 is not carried by mosquitoes.

Since it’s first human West Nile Virus case in 2001, the state has reported more than 26-hundred human cases and 46 deaths. This week, the state Department of Health said over 200 South Dakota towns, counties and tribes will share in 500-thousand dollars in grants intended to control mosquitoes to prevent West Nile virus.

(Thanks, Dakota Radio Group)