A case of West Nile virus has been confirmed in Rock Hill, DHEC reports
South Carolina health officials announced Monday that a Rock Hill resident has a confirmed case of West Nile virus.
Officials with the state’s Department of Health and Environmental Control recently informed York County Emergency Management officials of the virus, which is transmitted through an infected mosquito, a release from the city said.
According to DHEC’s website, most people infected with the virus have no symptoms and risk of serious illness is low.
As a result of the confirmed West Nile virus case, the city is working to control the mosquito population in the area. DHEC officials recommended spraying for mosquitoes within a one-mile radius of Marshall Street and East Black Street.
City officials did not say where the resident lives in Rock Hill.
Beginning around 10 p.m. Tuesday, a contractor will use a truck-mounted sprayer in the one-mile radius surrounding those street, the release said. The process could take about four to five hours.
The contractor will use a product called Aqua-Reslin and while the product is not harmful to people, pets, other insects and gardens, it’s recommended to be out of the direct path of the spray, the release said.
Beekeepers should also cover hives within the one-mile radius, according to the release.
To help limit mosquito exposure, city officials recommend that people use insect repellent, keep skin covered and keep windows and doors closed.
