Sandy Bridenstine, Marion Public Health Environmental Health Director, is reminding residents of important measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of becoming infected with the West Nile Virus and other mosquito borne diseases. She says that in spite of the recent drought conditions, the risk of disease still exists.
Culex mosquitoes do quite well in drought, according to Bridenstine, preferring to breed in organically rich water sources, such as shrinking water in ditches and catch basins. In addition, the heat experienced this summer speeds up their life cycle and virus amplification.
Bridenstine says mosquitoes become infected by feeding on infected birds. Preventing mosquito bites is the most important way to prevent mosquito borne illnesses. Not all human beings infected with the disease will become ill. Most infections are mild and symptoms may include fever, headache, body aches, skin rashes and swollen lymph glands. Most people recover completely. When more severe symptoms occur, they can range from fever, rash and headache to meningitis, encephalitis, coma and death. People over the age of 50 and those with weak immune systems are at greater risk for more serious illness.
The health department reminds all residents of the following precautions to reduce your risk of becoming infected with West Nile Virus:
- Reduce mosquito breeding on your property by eliminating stagnant water by disposing of empty cans, buckets flowerpots, old tires, trash cans, etc.
- Clean clogged roof gutters.
- Empty plastic pools when not in use and drain swimming pool covers.
- At least weekly, change water in bird baths and flush sump pits.
- Stock ornamental ponds with goldfish.
- Check and repair screens and screen doors.
- Stay indoors during dawn, dusk and early evening when mosquitoes are active.
- Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants and socks when you are outdoors. Avoid areas with heavy underbrush.
- When going outside, use an effective skin or clothing mosquito repellant. Always use a repellant according to the directions on the product label.
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