MediaUpdate

​Griffin joined UF/IFAS Extension in 2018 through the Family Nutrition Program in Broward County, first working as a part-time office assistant before becoming a nutrition educator.

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​Alachua County Fire Rescue’s 9-1-1 Office, in partnership with the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office, Gainesville Police Department, Gainesville Fire Rescue, and the Combined Communications 9-1-1 Center, is proud to introduce Smart911, a free and secure public safety tool available to all residents.

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​The Alachua County Commission will conduct its regular meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2025. The meeting is in the Jack Durrance Auditorium on the second floor of the Alachua County Administration Building (12 SE 1st St., Gainesville). The daytime meeting begins at 11:30 a.m. The evening meeting begins at 5 p.m.

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​Alachua County announced in a press release on Aug. 20 that an increase in mosquito-borne disease activity has been detected in the county.

​Alachua County Health Department administrator Paul Myers spoke to The Sun via phone on Aug. 20 and confirmed that several sentinel chickens have tested positive for West Nile virus infection from mosquitos.

​Myers said it only takes about two tablespoons of water to breed up to 200 mosquitos. Myers added that when breeding rates are very high, the area will be monitored to detect for mosquito-borne diseases in sentinel chicken flock first, then to horse populations, and that's when the risk to humans becomes elevated.
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​According to the CDC's website, if someone contracts the virus, symptoms usually start between two to six days, but can start anywhere from two to 14 days. If someone has a weakened immune system, it may take longer for the symptoms to set in.

If someone contracts West Nile virus, CDC said 80% do not develop symptoms while 20% develop flu-like symptoms, such as a fever with headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea or rash.

​"Most people with mild illness due to West Nile virus recover completely, but fatigue and weakness can last for weeks or months," according to the CDC's website. "Less than 1% of people infected develop severe illness that affects the central nervous system, requires hospitalization, or results in death."

Myers said mosquitos are more prevalent at dusk and dawn and residents should do their best to avoid being exposed to mosquitos at those times. If residents can't, they should take basic precautions including wearing insect repellent and long sleeve shirts and pants, and if anyone is experiencing a change in health, they should consult with their doctor.

​​The county said in the press release if any residents need any information, visit the department’s website or call 352-334-7900 and refer to the Florida Health mosquito prevention guide.

​The Florida Department of Health (DOH) in Alachua County issued a mosquito-borne illness advisory to residents on Wednesday after several sentinel chickens tested positive for West Nile virus infection.

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​The event is open to all community members, including parents, educators, and those working in or entering the mental health field. Those looking for resources or quality mental health information are encouraged to register.

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​Alachua County health leaders are issuing a warning about a rise in mosquito-borne diseases in the area.

Watch this story.​​

​The MTPO board voted to make Alison Moss, Alachua County’s transportation planning manager, the interim executive director until the second search finishes.  

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