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Posted: September 6, 2006
We’ve had some rain, the temperatures have dropped and holiday merchandise is appearing in the retail stores. It may feel like fall has arrived, but don’t let down your guard. West Nile Virus (WNV) is still at its peak.
As of September 5, 2006 the Center for Disease Control (CDC) reports avian, animal or mosquito WNV infections have been reported in 47 states, with human cases reported in 34 states.
WNV is usually spread by the bite of an infected mosquito that becomes infected from feeding on infected birds. The mosquito can then spread West Nile to humans and other animals that it bites.
The CDC reports the risk of severe illness and death is higher for people age 50 and over as with many illnesses. In 2004, more than 60 percent of severe WNV cases and 95 percent of the deaths due to WNV infection were people age 50 an older.
While WNV poses a serious health threat, most persons confirmed to have WNV soon recover. Among those with severe illness due to WNV, the CDC reports case-fatality rates range from 3% to 15% with the highest fatalities among the elderly.
WNV symptoms include fever, headache, tiredness and body aches, occasionally accompanied by a skin rash on the trunk of the body and swollen lymph glands. While the illness can be as short as a few days, it can linger for several weeks. In severe cases, disorientation, stupor, coma, tremors, convulsions and paralysis can occur. Less than one percent of the people who become infected with WNV will develop serious illness and most people who get infected do not develop any disease at all.
Avoid Bites!
Spray your skin or clothing with insect repellent always following label instructions. This is probably the most important action active seniors can take to reduce the chance of getting bitten by an infected mosquito. The CDC has found seniors are less likely to use a mosquito repellent.
Cover Up!
Wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants and socks sprayed with repellent while outdoors can help prevent bites.
Avoid Mosquitoes!
Limit the time you spend outdoors from dusk to dawn when many mosquitoes bite. Avoid shady, bushy areas where mosquitoes may rest.
Mosquito-proof your home!
Check your screens for holes and needed repairs to keep mosquitoes outside.
Drain Standing water!
A small amount of water can be enough for a mosquito to lay her eggs. Empty water from buckets, cans, pool covers, flower pots and other items that accumulate standing water.
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