County officials are asking residents to be cautious after several animals all tested positive for the antibodies to West Nile Virus.
A spokesperson said several sentinel chickens have tested positive at four of the county's 11 sentinel sites. A horse also tested positive.
West Nile transmitted by mosquitoes can cause encephalitis, a potentially deadly inflammation of the brain.
Officials said this isn't cause for alarm.
However, residents are warned to avoid exposure to mosquitoes and stay indoors during peak biting times.
This alert comes days after chickens in Seminole County also tested positive for the virus.
———————————————
Drain and cover to protect yourself from mosquitoes
DRAIN standing water to stop mosquitos from multiplying.
- Drain water from garbage cans, house gutters, buckets, pool covers, coolers, toys, flower pots or any other containers where sprinkler or rain water has collected.
- Discard old tires, drums, bottles, cans, pots and pans, broken appliances and other items that aren't being used.
- Empty and clean birdbaths and pet's water bowls at least once or twice a week.
- Protect boats and vehicles from rain with tarps that don’t accumulate water.
- Maintain swimming pools in good condition and appropriately chlorinated. Empty plastic swimming pools when not in use.
COVER skin with clothing or repellent.
- Wear shoes, socks, long pants and long-sleeves.
- Apply mosquito repellent to bare skin and clothing.
- Always use repellents according to the label. Repellents with DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus and IR3535 are effective.
COVER doors and windows with screens to keep mosquitoes out.
- Keep mosquitoes out of your house. Repair broken screens on windows, doors, porches, and patios.
Symptoms of mosquito-borne illnesses may include headache, fever, fatigue, dizziness, weakness and confusion.
People over 50 at higher risk of developing serious symptoms of West Nile Virus, and were advised to take special care to avoid mosquito bites.