FACTS ABOUT WEST NILE VIRUS
* West Nile
Virus is transmitted through mosquito bites.
* Some birds carry the
virus however, they cannot transmit it to humans.
* Report dead blue jays,
crows and raptors to the Health Department.
* The virus cannot be
spread from human to human. However, a pregnant woman
can transmit it to herunborn child.
SYMPTOMS
* Symptoms of West Nile Virus
may be mild to severe.
* Mild symptoms may
include: fever, headache, body aches, rash, or swollen
glands.
* Severe symptoms
include: high fever, severe severe headache, stiff neck,
muscle weakness, confusion,
tremors,
convulsions, paralysis or
coma.
If you
have these symptoms contact your doctor.
PREVENTION
* Mosquitoes lay their
eggs in standing water. Eliminate all sources of standing
water.
* Keep mosquitoes
off of you. Avoid being outside at dusk, dawn and other times
of heavy
mosquito
activity.
* Wear long sleeves, long pants and socks. Light colored
clothing is best.
* Keep
door and window screens in good repair.
* Wear insect repellant with
DEET(35-50% for adults, 10% or less for children. Do not
use for children under 2 years old)
For
further information contact The Southeast District Health
Department at 877-777-0424
