West Nile Virus

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Alan Nham
  • 509th Medical Operations Squadron
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  West Nile Virus is a fast growing epidemic. It has the potential to cause severe illness and even permanent neurological damages. Experts have established that WNV is a seasonal epidemic, rising up as summer draws near and lasting through autumn due to warm weather. If you're interested in keeping yourself safe from WNV or any other vector-borne diseases while outdoors, then read on.

WNV is transmitted from an infected bird to a mosquito, then from an infected mosquito to humans or other mammals. In a small number of cases, WNV has spread through blood transfusions, organ transplants and breastfeeding from mother to child. WNV cannot be contracted through direct person-to-person contact.

Since there is no treatment for WNV, the best method of prevention is not being bitten by a mosquito. Although there are many ways to control mosquitoes, the easiest way is to keep them from breeding near your home. By removing standing water, you can prevent mosquitoes from breeding, since this is where they lay their eggs. Within a few weeks, one mosquito can become thousands.

Remove anything able to hold water, like empty cans, trashcans, flower pots, bird feeders, bird baths and unused tires. These items should be emptied on a regular basis. Also, check window screens for any damage; even the slightest hole can allow pests in. If you notice holes in the ground, fill them with dirt to prevent breeding in these areas as well.

Since you are more likely to get bitten while outside of your home, be sure to wear a repellent that contains DEET. Apply to exposed skin and reapply as needed. If you are going outside, chances are you'll be sweating! A good indicator of proper application is that you are not being bitten.

Hopefully reading this article has given you some new ideas of how to control mosquitoes. Taking all of these precautions will help make your summer that much more enjoyable. If you have any questions, or would like more information, please contact the Public Health office at 687-2179.