Avoiding mosquito bites is best defense against seasonal West Nile Virus

Albany, GA – South Georgia residents need to ready themselves against the onslaught of a seasonal menace: disease-bearing mosquitoes.

“We know mosquitoes infected with the West Nile Virus are here,” said Dr. Jacqueline Grant, Southwest District Health Director. “South Georgia had cases of West Nile Fever last year. We need to be taking precautions against the disease now.”

During 2006, three people contracted the disease in Dougherty County, more than in any other county in the state. Georgia reported eight West Nile cases among humans last year. In the United States, 4,268 human cases of West Nile Virus were confirmed in 2006. Of that number, 177 resulted in death.

Although four out of five people infected with West Nile Virus will not develop symptoms, severe forms of the disease can cause inflammation of the brain, paralysis, coma or death.

“Anyone can get infected,” Grant cautioned. “More severe infections are seen in the elderly and those with a weakened immune system.”

Mild infections typically cause fever, headache, eye pain, muscle aches, joint paint, a rash on the torso and swollen lymph nodes.

The best way to avoid being infected with West Nile Virus is to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes, said Grant. “Use mosquito repellents, and reapply them if you are active. According to the CDC, the most effective repellents are those with DEET and those with picaridin. Repellents containing oil of lemon eucalyptus also received high ratings.”

When weather permits, wear long sleeves, long pants and closed shoes, she said. Since mosquitoes may bite through thin clothing, spraying clothes with repellent containing permethrin or another EPA-registered repellent can provide extra protection.

Other ways to avoid being bitten include remaining indoors during twilight and early morning hours when mosquitoes are most active, staying away from prime mosquito breeding habitats like swamps and wetlands and making sure doors, windows and porches are screened against the pests.

“Check around your house, and eliminate standing water. That is where mosquitoes lay their eggs,” Grant said. “It is also a good idea to keep swimming pools, saunas and hot tubs clean, chlorinated and covered if not in use.”

Earlier this month, three cases of West Nile in humans were reported in Mississippi, she noted. She said that data is collected each week from mosquito surveillance, veterinary cases, human cases, wild birds and sentinel chicken flocks.

“There is no specific treatment for West Nile Virus infections,” said Grant. “Milder West Nile Virus illness improves on its own, and people do not necessarily need to seek medical attention, though they may choose to do so. If you develop symptoms of severe West Nile Virus illness, such as unusually severe headaches or confusion, seek medical attention immediately.”

Severe cases usually require hospitalization, including administration of intravenous fluid, nursing care and respiratory care, she said.

“Remember, any time you are outdoors, you are at risk of being bitten by an infected mosquito. The more time you spend outside, the greater your risk,” Grant said.