USA Tests Vaccine for West Nile Virus

“This kind of mosquito and West Nile virus activity is not unusual for this time of year”.

A total of 22 states had reported West Nile virus infections in humans, birds or mosquitoes by the end of June. Intercommunity Health is coordinating the West Nile surveillance and control portion of the multi-agency effort in conjunction with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and the Delaware County Penn State Extension.

Regardless of where you are, avoiding mosquito bites is the best way to prevent getting infected.

The latest positive results were found in ZIP code 75229 in North Dallas, 75042 in Garland, 75205 in Highland Park and in 75149 and 75181 in Mesquite.

The department also suggests emptying any standing water from flowerpots, gutters, buckets, or any other objects holding water to prevent potential mosquito breeding sites.

The city has contracted with Colorado Mosquito Control to manage mosquito population around Longmont and kill mosquitoes in their larval stage before they can fly. West Nile virus prevention information is available on the county website at www.co.delaware.pa.us and fliers are distributed through the senior centers, municipalities and the county library system. “Usually we don’t see West Nile Virus, whether it’s mosquito pools or human cases, until later in the summer”.

Most people, however, will simply develop immunity to the virus and never develop a West Nile illness, Dr. Taege says. Most people with this type of West Nile virus disease recover completely, but fatigue and weakness can last for weeks or months. Anyone with severe symptoms should contact a health care provider.

Ensuring window screens are in good fix.

She advised that when going outdoors individuals should cover as much skin as possible with clothing and to use an effective repellent, such as those that contain 25 percent to 30 percent DEET. Make sure to read and follow label instructions.

There is concern that mosquitoes could multiply because of elevated water levels in areas like lakes, but Fowler says it’s tough for a large number of mosquitoes to form in lakes.