Nature's Edge - Mosquitoes and West Nile Virus - August 2005

This summer has been especially dry. This drought has not been good for our yards, but it has helped to keep the mosquito populations down! In the event that rain is coming, and we do get enough rainfall to breed mosquitoes, there are some simple precautions you can take to limit the number of bites you get and to protect yourself from West Nile Virus.

1. Use an insect repellent containing DEET when you are outdoors. The active ingredient N-diethylm-toluamide, when sprayed on clothing or skin, will repel mosquitoes. The higher the concentration the longer the protection lasts. If you are wearing long sleeves or long pants, simply spraying the clothing is adequate and reduces the amount of chemical absorbed by the skin. While DEET is safe for adults and children when used appropriately, care should be taken when spraying not to get it in your eyes or mouth.

2. Wear light colored clothing that covers your skin. During the hot summer this may not always be possible, however, most mosquito bites occur between dusk and dawn when the temperatures are not quite as hot. When possible, cover your skin and apply repellent to your clothing.

3. Repair damaged screens to keep mosquitoes outside. Keep doors closed.

4. Drain any standing water. Check your gutters, pots, buckets, or other places where water might collect and stand for periods of time. (If you have sections of your property which hold water – think about installing a rain garden. Native plants will "suck up" the extra water eliminating a mosquito breeding ground!)

Young children and adults over the age of 50 have a higher risk of becoming seriously ill if they become infected with the West Nile Virus. However, most people who become infected have no symptoms or only mild symptoms. Severe symptoms include headache, high fever, stiff neck, confusion, muscle weakness, convulsions, coma and paralysis. If severe symptoms develop seek medical attention.