Two more Northern Nevada residents suffering West Nile

Two new human cases of West Nile virus have been reported in Northern Nevada, according to the Nevada State Division of Health on Friday.

One is an individual in Churchill County over the age of 50 suffering from West Nile fever and the other is from Lyon County, also over the age of 50 and also suffering from West Nile fever.

"While temperatures are beginning to decrease, we need to remember that mosquitos remain active in every county in our state," said Dr. Bradford Lee, state health officer. "We still need to remain vigilant in practicing the preventive measures to reduce the chance of being bitten by mosquitos."

Lee reminds people to use mosquito repellent containing DEET, Picardin or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus, wear long sleeve shirts, pants and socks, be aware that mosquitos are most active between dusk and dawn, remove standing water from around your house, check the screens on your windows and make sure doors are closed.

Empire Elementary School teacher Mark Gardner of Dayton, is still at home after being diagnosed in July with West Nile Meningitis.

He said Aug. 26 he hoped to be able to go back to school by the second week of September, but on Friday, he was still feeling badly.

"I'm going to attempt to go back Monday," he said. "One doctor said it will take between three to six months before I recover, but I hope not. I'm going bonkers."

-- Contact reporter F.T. Norton at ftnorton@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1213.