From The Blog

KICA Takes Preemptive Mosquito Abatement Measures in Response to Confirmed South Carolina West Nile Virus Infection

The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) reports that a human case of West Nile virus was detected in Greenville, SC. The patient had recently traveled internationally and to Kiawah Island, so the infection origin is currently unknown.

The Kiawah Island Community Association will take preemptive measures, recommended by SC DHEC, by conducting mosquito spraying on Friday, Aug. 11 from 2-6 a.m. (zones 11-30; excluding 25, 28, 29), in addition to routine mosquito counts and spraying that occur weekly throughout the warm-weather months. Charleston County will also conduct an aerial insecticide spray on Kiawah Island on Sunday, Aug. 13 from 6-8 a.m. (If weather hinders the morning application, a second attempt will be made from 6:30-8:30 p.m.) Although these sprays are conducted at times to avoid people and bees, it’s best to stay indoors during, and immediately after, the application.

West Nile virus is a disease transmitted to humans and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected after feeding on infected birds. Most people infected with West Nile virus have no symptoms and the risk of serious illness is low. Learn about West Nile symptoms.

To prevent mosquito bites, wear clothing that reduces the risk of skin exposure and apply an insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon, eucalyptus, or IR 3535 according to label instructions.

Learn more about the West Nile virus.