West Nile Virus is typically spread by mosquitoes after they feed on infected birds and then bite people. By eliminating places for mosquitoes to breed, we can go a long way toward preventing West Nile Virus.

Many cities and counties are taking actions to reduce risks to citizens, but preventive
measures you can take yourself are most effective. It is not necessary to limit outdoor activities, but you can and should try to reduce your risk of being bitten by mosquitoes.

Protect yourself from West Nile Virus by avoiding mosquito bites:

• Dispose of tin cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots or other water-holding containers outdoors.
• Pay special attention to discarded tires on your property or in your neighborhood. Many neighborhoods are organizing tire cleanup events. Contact your local government for more information.
• Drill holes in the bottom of recycling containers that are left outdoors.
• Keep roof gutters clean and make sure they can drain properly.
• Turn over plastic wading pools when not in use or empty twice each week.
• Stir ornamental pools and water gardens or stock them with mosquito-eating fish.
• Maintain swimming pools and drain pools that are not being used.
• Use landscaping to eliminate standing water on your property.
• Change the water in bird baths at least twice each week.
• Cover boats and wheelbarrows or store them upside down.
• Make sure all windows and doors have screens, and that all screens are in good repair.
• Avoid mosquito-infested areas.
• Wear light-colored clothing. Wear shoes, socks, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt when outdoors for long periods of time, or when mosquitoes are most active.
• Consider the use of mosquito repellent containing DEET, according to directions, when it is necessary to be outdoors. Wash all treated skin and clothing when returning indoors. (The American Academy of Pediatrics and other experts
  suggest that it is acceptable to apply repellent with low concentrations of DEET
  to infants over 2 months old.)

Medical Information:

Most people with West Nile Virus have no symptoms, while others may experience fever, headache, body aches, skin rash and swollen lymph glands. West Nile Virus can cause encephalitis, which is an inflammation of the brain. People with severe infections may experience headache, high fever, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, occasional convulsions and paralysis. If you have any of these symptoms, contact your doctor.

People over 50 years of age have the highest risk of developing severe illness because the human body has a harder time fighting off disease as it ages. People with chronic diseases also have an increased risk of getting West Nile Virus.

There is no specific treatment for West Nile Virus infection. Most people recover fully from the virus, but some have ongoing health problems.

Birds and West Nile Virus

An unusually high number of dead birds in an area can indicate the presence of West Nile Virus. Some health departments keep track of the number and location of dead birds to help them determine where they should concentrate their mosquito eradication efforts.

If you find dead birds in your area, contact your local health department to find out if they want to record the information.

It is unlikely that people can contract WNV from handling dead birds, but birds carry other diseases and should never be handled with your bare hands. For safe disposal, wear gloves or cover your hands with plastic bags. Double-bag dead birds in sealed plastic bags, and place them in an outside trash container for pickup.

Mid-America Regional Council 600 Broadway, Suite 300 Kansas City, MO 64105-1554 Phone 816/474-4240 Fax 816/421-7758

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