Prevention, Symptoms & Treatment for West Nile Virus

Are you aware of how common the West Nile virus is here in America? In 2018, there were 2,647 cases reported to the CDC of individuals within the United States with the virus. West Nile virus (WNV) is commonly spread to people through the bite of an infected mosquito and is the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the U.S. West Nile virus is found within nature, where the virus cycles between birds and mosquitoes, later being transmitted to all other mammals.

Prevention of West Nile Virus

WNV is carried by mosquitoes feeding on infected birds, which then is spread to people when bitten. When considering how best to protect around your home, prevention must first start with tossing and tipping any stagnant water that may become a breeding ground for mosquitoes. By eliminating stagnant water around your home, you help control mosquitoes that maybe carrying the virus.

When outside, wear mosquito repellent, long sleeved shirts, and pants, misting clothing as well as exposed skin. When applying insect repellent to your child’s face, first mist into your hands and then place onto your child’s face, remembering to avoid their eyes and mouth.

If you decide to travel overseas, make sure to choose a hotel or lodge with air conditioning or windows with screens. Buy mosquito nets that have been treated with Permethrin and that are World Health Organization Pesticide Evaluation Scheme (WHOPES) approved, but do not wash them—this causes the insecticide to break down.

Symptoms of West Nile Virus

Please note: Here at Mosquito Squad, we are experts at killing mosquitoes, not medical care. Please always consult your healthcare team for any specific questions about WNV or symptoms.

Most individuals infected with WNV in America may not always have symptoms that would cause an individual to have concerns; some who are infected sometimes show no symptoms at all. One in five people who are infected develop a fever with other symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Only 1 of 150 people develop a severe illness affecting the central nervous system (encephalitis). The incubation period after the initial mosquito bite falls between 3 to 14 days.

West Nile Virus Treatment

For now, there are no vaccines or specific antiviral treatments for WNV infection. To alleviate any pain or minor symptoms such as headaches, body aches, or joint pains, buy over-the-counter pain relief treatment. For severe conditions, hospitalization may be necessary for supportive treatment, IV fluids, pain medication, and nursing care.

Mosquito Squad not only treats your yard by creating a barrier that lasts for 21 days, but we also educate our customers with the 7 T’s of Mosquito Control. These are the 7 steps you should take to keep your backyard as free of mosquitoes as possible.

• Tip: Tip over any standing water
• Toss: Excess grass and firewood
• Turn: Turn over large items ----bird baths, plastic toys, and portable sandboxes---
• Tighten or Remove Tarps
• Take Care: Keep grass cut and gutters cleared
• Team Up: Team up with your neighbors to help control mosquitoes by educating them as well
• Treat: Treat your yard by calling Mosquito Squad today for your free estimate