April marked the beginning of the mosquito breeding season, reports State Rep. Jim Cox (R-129). As such, public officials are reminding residents to take steps to protect themselves against West Nile virus.
West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne illness that can cause brain inflammation. The disease can be contracted from a single mosquito bite by an infected insect. Individuals over the age of 50 are at the highest risk of contracting the disease. Symptoms include fever, headache, and body aches, occasionally with a skin rash on the trunk of the body and swollen lymph glands. Although there is currently no vaccine, the virus usually clears up on its own.
The best way to reduce the risk is to eliminate potential mosquito breeding habitats, which are usually small areas of stagnant water. This can include anything from bird baths to trash cans. Other ways to reduce risk include wearing protective clothing and insect repellent.
For information on West Nile virus, click here.
