Human in Union County tests positive for West Nile Virus

A person has tested positive for the West Nile Virus in the city of Jonesville, according to a statement from Union County Emergency Management.

Union County Emergency Management Director Robert Fraim stated his office planned to visit with residents in Jonesville on Monday to provide information about the virus and would also check for breeding areas for mosquitoes.

Emergency management will begin spraying a pesticide in the city to help control the mosquito population, he stated. The pesticide does not pose a health risk to humans or animals. Beekeepers in the area should cover their hives.

A bird tested positive for West Nile Virus earlier this month not far from the Union County Airport.

Cherokee County officials received notification this week that two more birds had tested positive for West Nile Virus. So far, four birds and one human have tested positive for the virus in Cherokee County this year.

A number of West Nile Virus cases have also been reported this year in Spartanburg County. Testing confirmed a bird carried the virus in Boiling Springs in August, which led to mosquito control efforts. In early October, emergency management officials in Spartanburg County said five more cases of West Nile Virus in birds were reported. 

About one in five people who contract the virus develop symptoms, and one in 150 develop severe issues. West Nile can cause symptoms such as fever, headaches, stiff neck, tremors, weakness and can cause lasting neurological issues.