Four more chickens test positive for West Nile virus

Three of the chickens were at the Florida Evaluation Center, near Interstate 75 and DeSoto Boulevard, and the fourth chicken was from the Collier County's Sheriff's Office substation in Carnestown in eastern Collier, officials say.

Two Collier residents have tested positive for West Nile and are expected to recover. Two people in Lee County were diagnosed with the illness.

West Nile can cause encephalitis and can be fatal, especially among the elderly. The virus is spread to humans through bites by one species of a freshwater mosquito, Culex nigripalpus, and can cause encephalitis or meningitis. Symptoms include fever, headache, fatigue, dizziness, weakness and confusion. People 50 and older are more susceptible than younger people. The virus can lead to coma, paralysis and death.

Physicians should contact the health department if they suspect an individual's symptoms fit the description of the virus.

Tips for avoiding mosquito bites are:

-- Avoid being outdoors at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are feeding.

-- Wear clothing that covers the skin.

-- Wear mosquito repellents that include DEET.

-- Drain pots and other containers in yards that contain standing water where mosquitoes lay their eggs.

Homeowners also are advised to eliminate mosquito breeding conditions by:

-- Cleaning out eaves, troughs and gutters.

-- Removing old tires or drill holes in tires used in playground so they drain.

-- Turning over empty plastic pots.

-- Picking up beverage containers and cups.

-- Checking tarps on boats that may collect water.

-- Pumping out bilges on boats.

-- Replacing water in birdbaths and pet dishes at least once a week.

-- Removing water from drainage ditches.