Orange County warns of West Nile virus as mosquito activity increases
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. —
The Orange County Department of Health is warning residents about the spread of West Nile virus, a mosquito-borne illness that can be fatal in rare cases.
Health officials said sentinel chickens in the area have tested positive for the virus in higher numbers. They noted that peak transmission times in Florida are typically between July and September due to high temperatures, and summer rain creates ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes.
The department and the county’s mosquito control services are working on prevention measures to limit the spread of the virus in the community.
Steve Harrison, with Orange County Mosquito Control, advised residents to take precautions when outdoors.
“If you’re going to be out during times when mosquitoes are active, just take precautions. Long sleeves, long pants, wear EPA-approved repellent. And if you can avoid being outdoors when mosquitoes are most active during dusk and dawn,” Harrison said.
He also emphasized the importance of removing standing water from properties, saying, “Eliminate any standing water around your property so mosquitoes can breed in the smallest container of water.”
Officials added that the growing bird population during this time of year increases the number of times mosquitoes can transmit the virus before potentially infecting humans.
The Department of Health also stressed that drought conditions in Orange County do not eliminate the risk of mosquitoes, stating, “They’re still out even if it’s dry out.”
The last time Orange County issued a West Nile virus advisory was in 2024.