What is West Nile Virus?
West Nile Virus (WNV) is a virus carried by mosquitoes and can cause an infection called West Nile Encephalitis. "Encephalitis" is an inflammation of the brain, which can be caused by bacteria or viruses.
What are the signs and symptoms of WNV?
Most infections are mild and include the following symptoms:
Fever
Headache
Body aches
Occasional skin rash
Swollen lymph glands
Symptoms of a more severe infection include these:
High fever
Neck stiffness
Stupor
Disorientation
Coma
Tremors
Convulsions
Paralysis
Rarely, death
How to Prevent Mosquito Bites?
Wear light colored, loose fitting clothing (long sleeves and pants).
Repair tears in window and door screens.
Limit time outdoors at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
Do not wear perfume outdoors.
Insect repellant containing 30% DEET are effective at reducing bites from mosquitoes (Carefully read and follow all directions on the label before use.).
Do not use DEET on infants under 2 years of age, pregnant women, or children's bedding or clothing.
How to Reduce Mosquito Breeding Grounds?
Properly dispose of old tires.
Dispose of tin cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots, and other water holding containers.
Make sure roof gutter drain properly.
Change water in birdbaths, pet bowls, wading pools at least twice a week.
Turn over plastic wading pools, buckets, etc.
Clean and chlorinate swimming pools.
Drain water from pool covers.
For more information contact Marion County Public Health Department at (641) 828-2238 or log on to www.idph.state.ia.us.
