Know the Risks and Prevent West Nile Virus Infection
Just the name West Nile Virus makes this infection sound horrific, but there are steps you can take to prevent the disease. If you think you are not at risk just because you are not in the West Nile region of Egypt, think again. This mosquito-borne disease is more widespread than you may realize.
Keep in mind that not everyone bitten by a mosquito carrying the disease will show symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to a horrific and life-threatening brain inflammation infection that needs to be treated immediately. According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, there are approximately 2,500 people hospitalized due to viral encephalitis caused by the virus, and it kills more than 100 people throughout the U.S. each year.
The virus was first identified back in 1937 in Uganda, Africa. It is part of the encephalitis range of viruses, and there is currently no real vaccination available for it. Ultimately, the best course of action is to reduce the chances of being bitten by a mosquito in the first place.
Cases of West Nile Virus have been discovered in every area of the United States except for Alaska and Hawaii.
The Symptoms of West Nile Virus
The majority of human cases are asymptomatic. The individuals that visit their doctors show flu-like symptoms that are relatively mild. They may suffer from just a headache, a fever, and body aches — so it's very easy for people to believe they just have the flu.
However, in some cases, the infection can become more severe, putting the life of the patient in danger. These individuals experience symptoms including:
- Severe fever
- Severe headaches
- Weakness throughout the body
- Meningitis
- Pancreatitis
- Even slipping into a coma
How to Reduce Your Risks of Serious Infection
To reduce the risk of severe infection from the West Nile Virus, the key is to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. If you live in a part of the country where mosquitoes are a problem, getting professional help to eradicate them from around your home would be helpful. This should be done by a professional pest control expert, as the source has to be found so the correct actions can be applied.
So, to get to the heart of the problem, there are things you can do to reduce the risk of mosquito bites:
- Unclog gutters of leaves and debris
- Get rid of any standing water to prevent mosquitoes from breeding
- Install screens on windows and doors to keep them from getting in
- Avoid outdoor activities at dusk or dawn, when mosquitoes are most active
- If you are going outside, wear long pants and sleeves to give them less skin to latch onto
- Use quality repellent and apply it to bare skin
- If you have a weakened immune system, boosting it will help reduce your chances of succumbing to infection
Preventative Measures Against West Nile Virus
Ultimately, West Nile Virus is something that we all need to be aware of. The chances of developing a deadly disease may be slim, but there is no zero-percent risk. While there are things you can do to prevent a mosquito bite, it will be impossible to be perfect all of the time. If you do start to feel ill and are uncertain, get medical attention immediately.
Look at applying a number of the points mentioned above to lower your chances, and do not be afraid to get professional advice. Contact Rest Easy Pest Control at 888-927-9842 for comprehensive mosquito control services to protect your family from West Nile Virus and other mosquito-borne diseases.