Pinellas County health officials Friday issued an advisory for West Nile virus after detecting increased activity of the mosquito-borne virus.
No human cases have been reported, but 10 chickens have tested positive for exposure to the virus since August, said Jeannine Mallory, spokeswoman for the Pinellas County Health Department. Of those, four were reported in the last week, indicative of a recent increase in activity, she said.
The chickens are part of the county's early warning system for the virus, Mallory said.
Most people infected with West Nile don't get sick. But some suffer headaches, fever, fatigue or other symptoms. A few develop paralysis or die.
Health officials recommend not going outside at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are active. Those who can't avoid it should use a repellent containing DEET and wear clothing that covers the skin. Also, standing water around homes should be drained.
