West Nile Virus is a mosquito born virus. It is most prevalent during the months of July, August and September. It is carried by the Culex tarsalis mosquitoes which are known to be most active at dusk and dawn. But the hours in between dusk and dawn are peak times for mosquito activity.
Dramatic Increase in Cases Reported
This year there has been a dramatic increase in cases across the U.S. and Canada. In 2006, there were only 127 reported cases across Canada. This year there have been 339 cases in Saskatchewan with one death; Manitoba has reported 213 cases and 2 deaths; Alberta reports over 90 cases and Ontario has reported 2 cases so far.
Canadian officials report that hot, humid weather conditions in the Prairies have been prime for mosquito breeding this year. Warmer weather and higher humidity all across the U.S. has also contributed to increasing cases across the country.
Incubation Up to 3 Weeks
West Nile Virus can take up to three weeks to show up after one has been bitten. About 80% of individuals will experience no symptoms. Those who do become ill will have flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, back pain, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. The symptoms typically last 3 to 6 days.
Report Symptoms Immediately
The elderly and those with compromised immune systems are at greater risk of developing symptoms. Those who experience symptoms should seek medical attention. Immediate medical attention must be sought if symptoms progress to include:
- muscle weakness
- stiff neck
- confusion or change in clarity of thinking
- loss of consciousness
Dead birds can be a sign that West Nile is circulating between birds and mosquitoes in your area. All dead bird sightings should be reported to your county health department.
Take Steps to Prevent Breeding
Preventing West Nile is the most effective form of managing the disease. Check around your home, work place and recreation areas for any standing water and empty it regularly to prevent mosquitoes from laying and hatching eggs.
Repair all tears in screens and keep doors and windows closed if you have no screens or there are large gaps around the frames.
If you must be out during the hours between dusk and dawn, try to avoid the highest peak times 30 minutes prior to and after sunrise and sunset. Wear long sleeves and long pants. Mosquitoes can bite through thin clothing. Using DEET repellent is advised unless otherwise contraindicated. DEET is a serious chemical and should be used following all directions and precautions set by the EPA.
Kathy Quan - Kathy Quan RN BSN has been a home health/hospice nurse for over 30 years. She has authored five books and writes for several online ...
