While most people who are bitten by mosquitoes do not get sick, West Nile Virus is something you should be aware of. Since 1999, more than 30,000 people across the United States have developed the symptoms of West Nile and 1,200 have been killed by the disease. The reason why some people become severely ill from diseased mosquitoes and others don’t is not entirely known. Follow these tips to protect you and your family against the West Nile Virus.
Understand the severity of the West Nile Virus in your area
According to a recent article in the Washington Post, Texas has seen its worst year for this illness in 2012, and West Nile Virus in Dallas has been particularly prevalent. Around 500 cases of neuroinvasive West Nile disease, the most serious form of the illness, have been diagnosed in Dallas area and 40 people have died from the virus. That accounts for nearly half of all nationwide West Nile deaths this year, which is currently at 87. The numbers are expected to increase well into the fall when the weather begins to cool off.
Don’t make excuses
If you forget to bring repellant, go back and get it. If you rarely get bitten by mosquitoes, wear repellant anyway. We know it doesn’t smell good, but wearing repellant could protect you from the weeks or months of aches and fatigue that accompany West Nile infection. In severe cases, you could be hospitalized for brain swelling and other symptoms – so don’t make excuses about not wearing mosquito repellant.
Choose the right repellant
There are dozens of brands and varieties out there, but the ones that work best have approved ingredients such as:
- DEET
- IR3535
- Picaridin
- The plant-based oil of lemon eucalyptus
Stay protected from dusk until dawn
Mosquitoes can bite any time, but they are most active from the evening hours until early morning. Avoid being out during these hours if possible. If it can’t be avoided, wear repellant to protect against West Nile Virus.
With Dallas and the rest of Texas hit particularly hard by West Nile this year, it is essential that you take these precautionary measures to avoid contracting West Nile Virus. Visit your local CareNow provider or www.carenow.com to learn more.
