You may have to take mosquitos bites way more seriously. West Nile virus statistics are starting to get pretty scary with the number of infected people increasing drastically. California is the latest state to get hit with record levels of infections with eighty percent of mosquitos testing positive for the disease in Orange County alone. The arthropod-borne virus can be transmitted by a single bug bite and can cause symptoms like rash, headache, fever and muscle weakness. Most people infected do not suffer from any symptoms at all, but you don't want more serious complications to creep up. Protect your family with these effective tips.
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirms that 579 of West Nile virus disease cases have been reported so far this year. Fifty five percent of those were classified as causing a neuroinvasive disease, such as meningitis. One out of five people infected will develop a fever and fatigue that can last for weeks. Recovery for more severe cases could take several months. The CDC reports that about 10 percent of people who contract the West Nile virus will die.
There is currently no vaccine for the West Nile virus, which was first discovered in 1999. Fenyong Liu, a professor of infectious disease at UC Berkeley explained, "You have to take all vector-associated diseases very seriously, especially when the vectors are mosquitoes."
How can you protect yourself against the West Nile virus? According to the CDC, the most effective way to prevent and control the West Nile virus is to make sure to use mosquito repellent, wear protective clothing like pants and a long-sleeved shirt, and spray on extra bug spray during peak mosquito biting hours such as mornings and evenings.
The government site also suggests placing window screens that will prevent bugs from flying into your home. Also, make sure to empty standing water that could linger in flowerpots, pool covers or pet water dishes.
Image via Corbis
