West Nile Virus Found In Radnor: Why Officials Say It's No Reason To Panic

RADNOR, PA — A mosquito trap an Radnor's Encke Park tested positive for West Nile Virus, officials said Wednesday.

The trap is one of several in the township used to monitor and prevent the spread of mosquito-borne illness. A positive test means some number of mosquitos captured in the trap were carrying the virus.

No human cases have been reported in Eastern Pennsylvania this year, according to CDC data.

"Currently, this does not indicate widespread public health risk but serves as an important reminder to take precautions against mosquito bites," the township said in an advisory.

Radnor's Parks Maintenance Division will continue performing practices to manage mosquitos, such as removing standing water, officials said.

Residents can also take steps to protect themselves, officials said:

1. Drain water: Remove standing or stagnant water from flowerpots, buckets and gutters weekly. Be mindful of birdbaths and children's toys that hold water for more than four days.
2. Clothing: Wear long sleeves, long pants, and closed-toe shoes, especially around dawn and dusk.
3. Use Repellent: Apply EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin.

West Nile Virus is most-commonly spread through a bite from an infected mosquito, according to health officials. Symptoms include fever, headache, body aches, vomiting, diarrhea and rash.

Severe illness can impact the central nervous and cause hospitalization or death.