West Nile Virus risk drops in Henrico, health officials say

The risk of West Nile Virus transmission in Henrico County has fallen below the threshold that signals elevated concern, following weeks of targeted mosquito control efforts, according to health officials.

The Richmond and Henrico Health Districts reported this week that as of Oct. 7, fewer than 50% of mosquito trap sites in Henrico tested positive for the virus—down from the rate that prompted a countywide alert Sept. 19. There have been no recent confirmed human cases of WNV in Henrico.

The county’s Department of Public Works responded to the September surge with an intensified mosquito larvicide operation in areas showing high virus activity and ramped up its trapping and testing program to closely monitor mosquito populations.

Those actions appear to have helped reduce the risk, RHHD officials said, but added that residents should continue to take precautions to protect themselves from mosquito bites.

They are encouraging residents to wear loose-fitting, long-sleeved clothing when outdoors — especially from dusk to dawn, when the mosquitoes that transmit WNV are most active — and to use EPA-registered insect repellents on skin or clothing.

For children, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends repellents containing no more than 30% DEET and advises against using any repellent on infants younger than two months. Products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus or para-menthane-diol should not be used on children under three.

Residents can help reduce mosquito breeding by eliminating standing water around their homes. Even small containers such as flowerpot trays or bottle caps can harbor mosquito eggs. RHHD officials advise dumping or scrubbing out water-holding containers weekly and using larvicide “dunks” in water that can’t be drained.

Henrico residents may request a free property inspection to identify potential mosquito habitats and receive guidance on prevention; the inspection request form is available through the county’s website.

West Nile Virus is the most common mosquito-borne illness in Virginia. It spreads through bites from infected mosquitoes — not through person-to-person contact or consuming infected animals or birds.

Most people who contract WNV experience mild or no symptoms. Those older than 55 or with underlying health conditions such as cancer or kidney disease are more likely to develop severe illness, which can lead to long-term complications or death.

Common symptoms include fever, headache, body aches, vomiting or diarrhea, and sometimes a rash. There is currently no vaccine for WNV in humans; mosquito control and personal protection remain the best defenses, according to health officials.