<font color="#333399">West Nile Virus</font>

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West Nile Virus

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Despite cooler, autumn temperatures, West Nile Virus continues to be a problem around the country. (Click here to purchase "all natural" mosquito granules and dunks.)

West Nile Virus [WNV] is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. The virus can infect people, horses, many types of birds, and some other animals. Most humans who become infected have either no symptoms or only mild ones. However, on rare occasions, infection can result in severe and sometimes fatal illnesses. West Nile Virus is not spread from person to person.

Avoid Mosquito Bites

Fix or install window and door screens so mosquitoes cannot get indoors.
When possible, wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks while outdoors.
When outdoors, apply insect repellent containing DEET to exposed skin.
Repellents may irritate the eyes and mouth, so avoid applying them to children's hands. Spray clothing with repellents containing DEET or permethrin because mosquitoes may bite through thin clothes. Do not apply repellents with permethrin directly to skin. Do not spray DEET repellents on the skin under clothing.
Place mosquito netting over infant carriers when you are outdoors.
Consider staying indoors between dawn and dusk, the peak mosquito biting times.

Note: Vitamin B and "ultrasonic" devices are NOT effective in preventing mosquito bites.

Avoid Breeding Mosquitoes

Reduce the places mosquitoes can lay their eggs and breed.
Drain all standing water that lasts for more than four days.

Dispose of unused pots, cans, or similar water-holding containers.
Check in hard to see places, like under your home or in bushes.
Remove discarded tires and other items that could collect water.
Drill holes in the bottom of recycling containers.
Once or twice a week empty water from flowerpots, buckets, and barrels.
Do not allow water to stagnate in birdbaths or pet water dishes.
Check and clean out clogged roof gutters.
Turn over plastic wading pools when not in use.
Turn over wheelbarrows.
Clean and chlorinate unused swimming pools; empty pool covers.
Landscape your property to eliminate standing water on your property.
Alert the local authorities to potential mosquito breeding sites in your area.
Aerate ornamental pools or stock them with fish.

For more information check with the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid or 888-232-3228) or your state and local health departments.