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April 20, 2005
Guide to West Nile detection, prevention
Symptoms of the virus The majority of people who are infected with West Nile show no symptoms. Some may experience mild sickness, headache, or fever before making a full recovery. West Nile Virus can cause a serious virus that affects the brain in some individuals, particularly in infants and the elderly. The risk of becoming ill from a single mosquito bite is extremely low. Easy steps When dealing with West Nile Virus, prevention is the best bet. Fighting mosquito bites reduces the risk of getting the virus. Take these steps to reduce risk: • Avoid outdoor activities at dusk and down in areas where mosquitoes are active; • Clean out standing water from places where you work and play; • Help your community control the virus by reporting standing water to Emergency Services at 482-7244; • Repair leaking plumbing, prevent seepage from garden irrigation and remove standing or overflowing water from around swamp coolers and air conditioners. • When outside, use mosquito repellant on exposed skin and spray clothing. Mosquitoes can bite through thin layers of clothing. Choose a repellant with Permethrin or DEET as an ingredient; • Be a responsible property owner. Apply insect repellant containing DEET to exposed skin when outdoors. Even a short time being outdoors can be long enough to get a mosquito bite. Clothing can help reduce the risk of mosquito bites. When possible, wear long sleeves, long pants and socks when outdoors. Mosquitoes may bite through thin clothing, so spraying clothes with repellant containing Permethrin or DEET will give extra protection. Don't apply repellants containing those Permethrin directly to skin. Don't spray DEET on the skin under clothing. Make sure to read the directions on the repellant before use. Mosquito proof your home and drain standing water. Mosquitoes lay eggs in standing water. Limit the number of places around the home for mosquitoes to breed by getting rid of items that hold water, such as discarded tires, tin cans, ceramic pots and plastic containers. Also, ensure roof gutters drain properly and change bird baths at least once per week. Drain water from pool covers and keep pools and hot tubs cleaned and chlorinated. Stock permanent ponds or fountains with mosquito-eating fish, which can be obtained at Ye Old Fish Bowl, located at 270 Dahlia Street. Gambusia Affinis, also known as mosquito fish, can be purchased for 60 cents per fish or $6 per dozen. Call 513-6882 for more information. Some mosquitoes like to come indoors. Keep them outside by having well-fitting screens on both windows and doors. Information provided by Nye County Office of Emergency Services Education, Fire, Haz-Mat and EMS Division. |
