Mecklenburg County Public Health

North Carolina confirmed its first West Nile virus case in a Gaston County resident, with a blood donor in Mecklenburg County also testing positive. The virus was detected in mosquitoes across Cabarrus, Forsyth, and Mecklenburg counties, prompting public health advisories on prevention.

Mecklenburg County officials reported the first detection of West Nile virus in local mosquitoes and urged residents to take precautions. Recommendations include eliminating standing water, using insect repellent, and avoiding sweet-smelling scents to reduce mosquito bites.

West Nile virus was detected in mosquitoes collected in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, with no human cases reported. The CDC notes it is the leading mosquito-borne illness in the U.S., and officials emphasize prevention measures like repellent and eliminating standing water.

Mecklenburg County has confirmed 18 cases of cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness caused by a microscopic parasite. Public health officials are urging residents to take protective measures, with 60% of cases linked to an unspecified source.

Mecklenburg County Public Health distributed 900 free gun lockboxes through its Office of Violence Prevention. The lockboxes are available at 10 locations, including the Valerie Woodard Community Resource Center, A Brighter Day Outreach, and the Davidson Police Department.

Mecklenburg County WIC participants can now use $30 electronic benefits to purchase fresh produce at three local farmers markets, matched by an additional $30 from the county's Food Security Program. The initiative runs through October and partners with programs like SNAP Double Bucks and the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program, while CATS offers free rides to northern markets for SNAP users.