From DOH-Orange
In Summary:
Several sentinel chickens in Orange County have tested positive for West Nile virus, indicating that the virus is circulating among local mosquitoes and birds. DOH-Orange and Orange County Mosquito Control are coordinating expanded surveillance and mosquito-control treatments. Residents are encouraged to avoid mosquito bites, report dead birds, and consult state health resources for prevention information.
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The Florida Department of Health in Orange County (DOH-Orange) advises residents that mosquito-borne disease activity has increased in areas of Orange County. Several sentinel chickens have tested positive for West Nile virus infection. DOH-Orange and Orange County Mosquito Control are coordinating their surveillance and prevention efforts by expanding coverage within affected communities. In addition, response measures have increased through targeted mosquito control treatments to help reduce mosquito populations.
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DOH-Orange reminds the community to avoid mosquito bites 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 mosquito prevention webpage or contact your county health department.
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.
For more information about the Florida Department of Health, visit FloridaHealth.gov.
Key Points:
- Several Orange County sentinel chickens tested positive for West Nile virus.
- The announcement does not report any confirmed human infections.
- Mosquito surveillance is being expanded in affected communities.
- Orange County has increased targeted treatments to reduce mosquito populations.
- Residents should take precautions against bites and report dead birds to state wildlife officials.
