What is West Nile Virus? Prevention, Symptoms, and Treatment

West Nile Virus is the most common mosquito-borne disease in the continental United States and is most commonly spread to people by the bite of an infected mosquito (Source: CDC). On June 25, 2024, the first positive case of human West Nile virus in Montgomery County this season was reported and is under investigation and pending approval by the Department of State Health Services.

Mosquito Squad shares information below on what West Nile Virus (WNV) is, how to prevent it, and what the symptoms and treatments are crucial in protecting you and your family.

PREVENTION OF WEST NILE VIRUS

West Nile Virus is carried by mosquitoes feeding on infected birds, which then is spread to people when bitten. When considering how best to protect around your home, prevention must first start with tossing and tipping any stagnant water that may become a breeding ground for mosquitoes. By eliminating stagnant water around your home, you help control mosquitoes that maybe carrying the virus.

When outside, wear mosquito repellent, long sleeved shirts, and pants, misting clothing as well as exposed skin. When applying insect repellent to your child’s face, first mist into your hands and then place onto your child’s face, remembering to avoid their eyes and mouth.

If you decide to travel overseas, make sure to choose a hotel or lodge with air conditioning or windows with screens. Buy mosquito nets that have been treated with Permethrin and that are World Health Organization Pesticide Evaluation Scheme (WHOPES) approved, but do not wash them—this causes the insecticide to break down.

SYMPTOMS OF WEST NILE VIRUS

Please note: Mosquito Squad are experts at helping control or eliminate mosquitoes, not medical care. Please always consult your healthcare team for any specific questions about WNV or symptoms.

Most individuals infected with WNV in America may not always have symptoms that would cause an individual to have concerns; some who are infected sometimes show no symptoms at all. One in five people who are infected develop a fever with other symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Only 1 of 150 people develop a severe illness affecting the central nervous system (encephalitis). The incubation period after the initial mosquito bite falls between 3 to 14 days.

WEST NILE VIRUS TREATMENT

For now, there are no vaccines or specific antiviral treatments for WNV infection. To alleviate any pain or minor symptoms such as headaches, body aches, or joint pains, buy over-the-counter pain relief treatment. For severe conditions, hospitalization may be necessary for supportive treatment, IV fluids, pain medication, and nursing care.

Mosquito Squad not only treats your yard by creating a barrier that lasts for 21 days, but we also educate our customers with the 7 T’s of Mosquito Control. These are the 7 steps you should take to keep your backyard as free of mosquitoes as possible.

• Tip: Tip over any standing water
• Toss: Excess grass and firewood
• Turn: Turn over large items – bird baths, plastic toys, and portable sandboxes
• Tighten or Remove Tarps
• Take Care: Keep grass cut and gutters cleared
• Team Up: Team up with your neighbors to help control mosquitoes by educating them as well
• Treat: Treat your yard by calling Mosquito Squad today for your free estimate

To find out how to help further reduce mosquitoes, ticks, and other pests from your yard, contact Mosquito Squad at (713) 599-3666 or visit MosquitoSquad.com. And, be sure to ask about Mosquito Squad’s barrier treatment, which helps eliminate up to 85 – 90% of mosquitoes on a property. Mention HELLO WOODLANDS to receive $100 OFF your full season mosquito control plan. Limited Time Only!

Source: Mosquito Squad