The Guilford County Health and Human Services Agency - Department of Public Health is encouraging residents to take simple steps to reduce their risk of West Nile virus infection as mosquito activity increases during warmer months.
West Nile virus is carried by wild birds and can be transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. It does not spread from person to person.
Most people infected with West Nile virus will not experience any symptoms, but about one in five people will develop a fever and other symptoms such as headache, body aches and joint pain. About one in 150 people will develop a serious neurologic illness and symptoms may include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, disorientation, seizures and paralysis. Only cases of neurologic illness are reportable in North Carolina.
Elderly people and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of developing severe illness due to West Nile virus infection. Currently, there are no West Nile vaccines available for humans and no medications available to cure West Nile disease once a person is infected by a mosquito. If you are ill and suspect you may be infected with West Nile virus, contact your health care provider.
The mosquitoes that most commonly transmit the virus can be found statewide and are most active between dusk and dawn. Follow these tips to prevent mosquito bites and reduce your risk of exposure to West Nile virus:
- Use mosquito repellent while mosquitoes are feeding:
- Find an EPA-registered mosquito repellent and apply according to the manufacturer’s instructions;
- Use repellents especially after sunset as they normally begin to feed after sunset and continue until dawn; and
- Re-apply regularly based on label instructions.
- Prevent water from collecting in containers around your home. After every rainfall, tip out any containers that can hold water, even a small amount, such as saucers under flowerpots. Cover, turn over or throw away items like toys, buckets and tires. Change the water in birdbaths and pet bowls at least twice a week.
Keep gutters clean and in good repair and replace corrugated downspout extensions with smooth extensions to prevent mosquito larvae from growing. - Make sure rain barrels have tight-fitting screens or lids.
- Treat standing water in containers and low areas around the home with EPA-approved larvicides. Many options are available that last for weeks to months.
- When possible, drain any standing water on your property such as puddles and ditches that hold water for more than four days after rain.
- Use screened windows and doors, and make sure screens fit tightly and are not torn.
"Preventing mosquito bites starts with simple actions at home," said Anita Ramachandran, Guilford County Assistant Health Director. "Using insect repellent, removing standing water and encouraging your family and neighbors to do the same can protect our entire community."
For more information, visit the NCDHHS West Nile Virus webpage or the CDC West Nile virus webpage and learn more about preventing mosquito bites.