Don't discount the dangers of West Nile virus. The virus-carrying mosquitoes will continue to pose a threat until the arrival of cold weather.

West Nile generally causes flulike symptoms. But about 80 percent who have the virus will show few or no symptoms of ill health. That leaves one of every 150 people, primarily individuals whose immune systems have been weakened by illness, and the elderly or very young, at risk. They may suffer high fever, muscle weakness, numbness, stupor, nausea, disorientation, paralysis, inflammation of the brain, convulsions, coma and/or death.

West Nile is spread when mosquitoes feed on the carcasses of infected birds and then bite humans and animals. Horses are especially vulnerable.

The best defense against West Nile is a good offense. People should remove old tires, tire swings, buckets and barrels that collect and retain water. Those are places where mosquitoes lay their eggs. Wading pools and ponds can also be breeding places and should be sprayed with an approved insecticide.

Scorching temperatures during the summer encourage individuals to wear shorts and short-sleeved shirts, making them tempting targets for the mosquitoes. People would be safer if they wore long pants, socks, shoes and long-sleeved shorts, if they used a repellent containing DEET or Picaridin, and if they stayed inside during the hours of dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.

West Nile virus is a potential killer. The disease can be deadly to those most vulnerable -- older people, small children and those who are ill, weak or injured.

West Nile symptoms

If you have been bitten by a mosquito, several symptoms may indicate West Nile virus infection. They are fever, headache, muscle aches, skin rash and swollen lymph glands.

More severe symptoms, which could indicate West Nile virus encephalitis, are severe headache, a stiff neck, stupor, disorientation, convulsions and paralysis.

If you experience these symptoms, consult your doctor as soon as possible.

Protect yourself
• Eliminate standing water in your yard.
• Unclog roof gutters.
• Empty unused swimming pools or add chlorine.
• Change water in birdbaths and pet dishes.
• Remove old tires, unused containers and flower pots.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
• Apply insect repellents with DEET or Picaridin.
• Avoid being outside at dawn or in the evening, when mosquitoes are most active.


Source: Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services