Rhodes warns Myrtle Beach of West Nile virus case

On Friday, Sept. 15, Myrtle Beach Mayor John Rhodes released a public service announcement (PSA) on the Myrtle Beach City Government’s Facebook page concerning a recent case of the West Nile virus.

In Rhodes' PSA, he alerted the public that the Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) confirmed one case of the West Nile virus between Third Avenue South and Mr. Joe White Avenue.

Rhodes assured the public DHEC is doing what they can to stop another case of the virus.

“We have increased mosquito spraying in that area beginning [Sept. 15]," said Rhodes. "We also will continue spraying in that area as we have done before."

Rhodes also said that DHEC will be treating any still-water and will be setting mosquito traps around the city beginning Monday, Sept. 18.

West Nile virus can only be spread through infected mosquitoes, not through person-to-person contact.

While DHEC is doing what they can to stop any further cases of West Nile virus, Rhodes encouraged the public to help aid the project.

“Look around your property for any mosquito breeding grounds and empty any standing water," said Rhodes. "Do not give mosquitos a place to breed."

He also encouraged the public to wear long sleeves and use mosquito repellent if they choose to spend time outside at night because during this time, mosquitos are most active.

Most people do not develop symptoms when infected with the virus, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

Some people may experience a fever and other symptoms, such as headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea or rash.

Very few people, 1 in 150, who are infected develop severe symptoms affecting the central nervous system, such as encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain.