The key is limiting your exposure to the mosquitoes that cause the illness.
Every summer cases of West Nile Virus get reported in the press. The disease, which first appeared in 1999, can cause death in severe cases in people over 50, but people of any age can suffer from the illness. In 80% of humans the West Nile Virus has no effect. For others, West Nile Virus can cause moderate to severe symptoms in twenty percent of the population. Many areas around the country have initiated insecticide spraying to help control the population, but there are other steps individuals can take to lessen their risks of contracting the disease.
Preventing the West Nile Virus for Individuals
Because West Nile Virus is transmitted by mosquito bite, the simplest way of preventing new cases is wearing long sleeved clothing and wearing high socks that go above the ankles. Mosquitoes can still bite through clothing, it is also necessary to apply insect repellent. Many companies make products insect repellent such as Off and Cutter, and Avon's Skin So Soft can help keep mosquitoes away. People can aid in preventing new cases of the West Nile Virus by knowing during which hours mosquitoes are most active. Extra sunscreen and thicker clothing should be worn when going outside between the hours of dusk and dawn.
Besides using insect repellent and thick clothing out of doors, there are other things a person can that help in preventing the West Nile Virus and the preventions other diseases spread by insect bites. Mosquitoes prefer to lay their eggs in stagnant water. By removing areas around a home where water can collect, homeowners make it less likely that areas near your home will be used as a place for their mothers to deposit eggs. Homeowners Keeping screen windows and screen doors in good repair reduces the amount of insects and other pests that enter the home.
Preventing the West Nile Virus in the Community
Community clean up efforts can remove other likely mosquito breeding grounds. Dead birds and other roadkill should be reported to the road crews responsible for keeping the local highways clear. Eliminating the biting insects completely may not be an option, but the the spread of the disease can be slowed. Four out of Five people bitten by a mosquito carrying the illness will not develop any symptoms of to the West Nile Virus. Should a mosquito bite victim start to develop flu like symptoms within a few days of the incident, medical help should be sought. If left untreated and allowed to spread, West Nile Virus can become West Nile Meningitis or West Nile encephalitis.
Even though West Nilve Virus is not usually fatal, taking steps that help in preventing the disease will keep the reported cases that occur every sommer down.
Sources:
Health Line -- West Nile Virus
Centers for Disease Control -- West Nile Virus Prevention
National Institute of Health -- West Nile Virus
