WestNileVirus

West Nile Virus: 

West Nile Virus

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Virus currently found in many areas of the eastern half of the U S Spread by bite of infected mosquito Can infect people, horses, many types of birds, and other animals Most people who become infected with West Nile virus will have either no symptoms or only mild ones. Avoid Mosquito Bites to Avoid Infection!

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On rare occasions, infection can result in a severe and sometimes fatal illness known as West Nile encephalitis (an inflammation of the brain) Risk of severe disease is higher for persons 50 years of age and older There is no evidence to suggest that West Nile virus can be spread from person to person or from animal to person.

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As of August 7, 2002, state health departments have released information on 112 cases of West Nile virus related human illness this year, including 5 deaths. From 1999 through 2001, there were 149 cases of West Nile virus human illness in the United States reported to CDC and confirmed, including 18 deaths.

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West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne disease that can cause encephalitis, or a brain infection. Mosquitoes acquire the virus from birds and pass it on to other birds, animals and people. Mosquitoes spread this virus after they feed on infected birds and then bite people, other birds and animals. It is not spread by person-to-person contact and there is no evidence that people can get the virus by handling infected animals

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People with mild infections may experience: Fever Headache Body aches Skin rash Swollen lymph glands This is called West Nile Fever. If you have any of these symptoms, contact your doctor.

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Protect yourself from mosquito bites! Human illness from West Nile virus is rare, even in areas where the virus has been reported. The chance that any one person is going to become ill from a mosquito bite is low. You can further reduce your chances of becoming ill by protecting yourself from mosquito bites. To avoid mosquito bites, you can limit the number of places available for mosquitoes to lay their eggs by eliminating standing water sources from around your home.

Using Insect Repellents Safely: 

Using Insect Repellents Safely If/when you go to a doctor, take the repellent with you.

FYI: 

Get specific medical information about the active ingredients in repellents and other pesticides by calling the National Pesticide Information Center (NPIC) at 1-800-858-7378. NPIC operates from 6:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (Pacific Time),9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. (Eastern Time), 7 days a week. FYI

What You Can Do to Help Fight Mosquitoes: 

Empty standing water in old tires, cemetery urns, buckets, plastic covers, toys, or any other container where "wrigglers" and "tumblers" live. Empty and change the water in bird baths, fountains, wading pools, rain barrels, and potted plant trays at least once a week if not more often. Drain or fill temporary pools with dirt. Keep swimming pools treated and circulating and rain gutters unclogged. What You Can Do to Help Fight Mosquitoes

What You Can Do to Help Fight Mosquitoes: 

Use mosquito repellents when necessary and follow label directions and precautions closely. Use head nets, long sleeves and long pants if you venture into areas with high mosquito populations, such as salt marshes. If there is a mosquito-borne disease warning in effect, stay inside during the evening when mosquitoes are most active. What You Can Do to Help Fight Mosquitoes

What You Can Do to Help Fight Mosquitoes: 

Make sure window and door screens are "bug tight." Replace your outdoor lights with yellow "bug" lights. Contact your local mosquito control district or health department. Neighborhoods are occasionally sprayed to prevent disease and nuisance caused by large mosquito numbers. If you have any questions about mosquitoes and their control, call your local authorities. What You Can Do to Help Fight Mosquitoes

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For more information: Centers for Disease Control 1600 Clifton Rd. Atlanta, GA 30333 U.S.A (404) 639-3311 www.cdc.gov