by

Joseph

When I saw the first mosquito of the season buzzing past my windshield I felt glad to have the windows rolled up. Summer is only one month away and the warm weather is already bringing insects out. We're fast approaching the time when mosquitoes are going to be out in force and with them comes the West Nile Virus. What sort of precautions can you take to protect yourself from this serious and sometimes fatal disease? That's the focus of this article.

Important Facts About the West Nile Virus

Health experts estimate that greater than twenty percent of people infected with West Nile Virus (WNV) will exhibit some symptoms of the disease. One out of every one hundred and fifty people infected with the West Nile Virus (WNV) will express serious symptoms. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), West Nile Virus symptoms can appear anywhere between three to fourteen days after infection and may include:

• fever
• headache
• body ache
• nausea
• vomiting
• neck stiffness
• disorientation
• convulsions
• tremors
• muscle weakness
• loss of vision
• stupor
• neck stiffness
• paralysis
• swollen lymph nodes
• skin rashes on chest, back or stomach
• confusion

People over fifty or who spend a lot of time outdoors are at greater risk for WNV infection. In light of this, there are some steps you can take to protect yourself from exposure to the West Nile Virus. 

(The image "Aedes albopictus" via wikipedia)

What You Can Do To Protect Yourself from the West Nile Virus

West Nile Virus is commonly transmitted through bites from infected mosquitoes. You can cut down on your chances of becoming bitten by mosquitoes by following these tips:

• use insect repellant
• wear long sleeved shorts and long pants during times when mosquitos are most likely to be active
• avoid going outdoors during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active
• remove standing water from old tires, buckets, flower pots because they are  commonly used by breeding mosquitos
• throw out unused water from your pet dish and empty wading pools at night to prevent mosquitos from using them as breeding sites
• keep windows and doors closed at to prevent mosquitos from getting into your home
• make sure that your window screens are secure, broken screens make it easy for insects to get into your home

Although most people who become infected with West Nile Virus won't become sick, if you do believe that you've come down with the disease see your doctor. Health experts caution that severe symptoms e.g. confusion, severe headaches could be signs of very serious illness that often requires hospitalization. 

Don't let a nasty bug keep you and your family from enjoying yourselves this summer, pay attention to the signs of West Nile Virus because an ounce of prevention goes a long way toward protection.

To learn more about the West Nile Virus visit the CDC website through the link at the bottom of this article.

Always hold onto hope, wait on the Lord Jesus Christ and receive strength from Him.

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Article Source

CDC: West Nile Virus - What You Need To Know http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/wnv_factsheet.htm

"Protect Yourself From West Nile Virus With These Important Tips" copyright © 2011 Living Fit, Healthy and Happy_(SM). All Rights Reserved.

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