Washtenaw County Public Health reports that the West Nile Virus has been found in three dead birds locally since August 15.   Donna Nussdorfer, WC Communicable Disease Coordinator, reminds us that it is more important than ever to remember to protect ourselves and our families from mosquito bites this fall.

WNV is a mosquito-borne virus that can cause encephalitis or meningitis in humans and other animals.  Mosquitoes become infected with WNV when they feed on infected animals, and after 10-14 days they can transmit the virus to humans and animals when biting.  Infection with WNV can be asymptomatic (no symptoms), or can lead to West Nile fever or severe West Nile disease.

While there is no WNV vaccine for humans currently available, there are many precautions you can take to reduce your chances of becoming infected:

• Avoid areas where there are large numbers of mosquitoes and times when mosquitoes are most active, typically around sunrise and sunset
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants whenever you are in areas with lots of mosquitoes
• Repair and maintain window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out of buildings
• Limit mosquito breeding sites by draining standing water in your yard - Empty water from flower pots, gutters, pools, patio furniture covers, buckets and other items that can collect water
• Change the water in birdbaths at least two times a week
• Cut tall weeds and grass to remove mosquito hiding and resting areas
• Apply insect repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin; spray clothing with repellent because mosquitoes may bite through thin clothing - Wash repellent off after coming back indoors
• Caution: whenever you use an insect repellent, be sure to read and follow the label directions for safe use -- Do not use DEET repellent on children under 2 months of age
• Avoid applying repellent to the hands of children because repellents may irritate the eyes and mouth.

Help Public Health officials monitor for WNV by reporting dead crows, blue jays, or ravens by calling Washtenaw County Public Health’s West Nile Virus Hotline at: (734) 544-6750

_____________________________________________

  Want to learn more about the West Nile Virus?