OSU extension specialist: More emphasis needed on West Nile Virus

Ohioans might consider shifting concern over mosquito-borne illness from the much-discussed Zika virus to the not-as-much-discussed West Nile virus.

That’s according to an Ohio State University extension specialist, who urged residents to eliminate mosquito-breeding sites around their homes and take other precautions to combat both diseases.

“That’s something that’s going to benefit us, regardless [of which disease you’re working to prevent],” said Joe Boggs, who offered an update on Zika during an entomology talk at this year’s Farm Science Review near London, about a half-hour west of Columbus.

To date, the Ohio Department of Health has confirmed more than 40 cases of Zika. All but one were contracted in other countries; the lone exception was believed to be transmitted via sexual activity.

And the reason why? “The mosquito that spreads Zika is not found in Ohio,” Boggs said. For the full article click here

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