Protect Yourself From West Nile Virus By Margaret S. Mathews At Isnare.com Ezine Articles

The West Nile virus is transmitted to humans primarily by the Culex tarsalis mosquito, usually during the summer and early fall months of July, August and September. With warm spring weather transmission can occur even in May.

The risk of developing illness from West Nile virus is generally low. The risk varies from year to year based on precipitation – including rain and snow, temperature, mosquito population and other factors.

What are the symptoms of West Nile Virus? What should you be on the lookout for in family and friends? Most people who are infected with West Nile virus have no symptoms and do not get sick at all. Those who do get sick usually have a mild illness with symptoms such as fever, headache and body aches.

Less frequently, the virus can cause a more severe illness, such as encephalitis (swelling and inflammation of the brain inside the skull case) which can be very serious and indeed life threatening. Sever illness occurs most frequently among people with chronic health conditions or those with weakened immune systems. More severe illness also tends to occur among older adults but has occurred across all age groups – from infants, to teen ages, adults and the elderly.

What can you do to protect yourself, your family and friends from mosquito bites to reduce your chances of catching this West Nile virus disease? First reduce the time that you spend outside your home in the open air, golf course, and forest areas between dusk and dawn.

Next it is wisest to always apply an appropriate most mosquito repellants generally contain a combination of a compound referred to as Deet (pronounced Deeeet). The more potent mosquito repellant contain higher concentrations of this repellent deet.
However they may mar and stain clothing as well as the finish of furniture that they come in contact with. Additionally there are other types of products and combinations that are known to repel mosquitoes. Of mosquito repellants that you may use include Icardidin (also known as picaridin, Bayrepel and KBR 3023). Citronella oil, Premethrin and even soybean oil.

It is always best to wear light, rather than dark colored, clothing. This clothing should be loose fitting with long sleeves and pant legs. No matter how hot or humid it may be short sleeves and shorts are not a good idea when preventing this scourge of West Nile virus. Remember all it takes is one solitary bite from one single mosquito to drastically change your life for the worst.

You should ensure that your house is compartmentalized and sealed to air borne insects. Ensure that your door and window screens fit tightly are free of holes

Lastly it is essential that you do your best to reduce the actual mosquito habitats – the areas that mosquitoes – live, thrive, grow and breed. Regularly clean and empty eaves troughs, swimming pool covers and other items that may collect and pool water. Be on the lookout for empty tires. Empty tires can be wonderful breeding places for prolific amounts of mosquitoes. Clean and empty bird baths regularity. If you have rain barrels to collect the natural rain water ensure that these rain barrels are covered with mosquito screening. If not then the downspout itself should be more than tightly sealed. Clear your yard of those items and debris that may collect standing water. Lastly practice good lawn hygiene. It is best to cut the grass around your home or Lake Chalet or cottage. Trim those hedges and trees around your doorways and seating areas.

Remember. All it takes is one single bite from a solitary little mosquito to change your life for the worst.

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