Duval County records highest rate of West Nile virus since 2012

Duval County has the highest rate of West Nile virus that it's seen since 2012, according to a new report out by the Florida Department of Health.

The Duval County Health Department confirmed 13 cases of West Nile virus on Wednesday.

STORY: Duval County has highest rate of West Nile virus in State, according to Health Department report

After a rise in the number of West Nile virus cases in 2018, the Duval County Public Health Department said it is now working with the Jacksonville's mosquito control staff to cut down on those numbers this year.

Leo Davis, who lives in Jacksonville, said the higher numbers last year are concerning.

“Yeah, especially I just try to go through the preventative measures and make sure I have no standing water sitting around my house because I stay right by a water source,” he said.

On Wednesday morning, the City Council met and asked Duval County Health Department officials what can be done to protect the public after learning the county now leads the state in West Nile virus cases for 2018. One way health officials are hoping to do that is through education.

STORY: Another human case of West Nile virus reported in Jacksonville

STORY: Health officials confirm new human case of West Nile virus in Jacksonville

“We put it on social media; we put information sheets for how residents can protect themselves,” said Alison Hewitt, director of communication for the county Department of Health.

The county Health Department is also working with the city’s mosquito control personel as they monitor cases, continue surveillance and treat storm drains around the area.

As for why the sudden increase in numbers, the Health Department says there’s no one factor to blame. “it’s about every five years we see an increase here. We see an increase in Duval County. There’s been no scientific reason as to why,” said Hewitt.

The county Health Department and city’s mosquito control staff are coming up with a map that they use to pinpoint areas the county that need more attention.

After finding about how many cases Duval County had last year Davis says he’ll take better steps to protect himself.

“I’m going to get a lot of Off! (mosquito repellent), make sure I have a lot of mosquito nettings, and if I don’t have to go outside, I’m not going outside,” said Davis.

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