Fort Bragg Responds To West Nile Threat

The soldiers often practice in the woods and come across small creeks, which are common places for mosquitoes. In response, they are now required to wear uniforms treated with insect repellent.

However, these steps do not guarantee prevention against mosquito bites.

Fort Bragg is improving efforts by keeping a closer eye on the new traps and using

larvicide tablets

to contain mosquitoes. They are also trying to change mindsets.

"Soldiers feel if they are home, they are safe and there are no threats at home. But there is the potential for threat in this area," said Fort Bragg Entomologist Michael Desena.

The odds of catching West Nile virus are still rare with a less than a one percent chance of coming down with symptoms if a mosquito bites you.

The

Womack Army Medical Center

is in the process of putting together West Nile virus pamphlets that will be distributed to all units on post.

State officials say 12 additional birds have tested positive for West Nile virus. These are the first cases of the virus in Alexander, Forsyth and Davidson counties. All the birds were either crows or blue jays.

Officials are also asking that citizens take extra care to eliminate standing water and reduce chances of mosquito reproduction.