WEST NILE VIRUS

As summer brings the warm weather, attention turns to two summer public health threats in Iowa, mosquitoes and ticks. Health officials say now is the time to plan the action steps you and your family will take this year to minimize your risk.

Although mosquitoes can carry several diseases, most of the attention has been placed on West Nile Virus (WNV). Over the last five years, over 250 Iowans have been diagnosed with WNV and 12 of those have died.

According to State Epidemiologist Dr. Patricia Quinlisk, "West Nile season does last until the first hard frost," Quinlisk said. "That is several months away, so Iowans need to continue to take steps to reduce their exposure to mosquitoes." "The peak West Nile season is late summer and early fall, but West Nile can be spread anytime mosquitoes are present."

Protective measures include:

• Using insect repellent with DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Check repellent label for correct use.
• Avoiding outdoor activities at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
• Wearing long-sleeved shirts, pants, shoes, and socks whenever possible outdoors.
• Eliminating standing water around the home because that's where mosquitoes lay eggs. Empty water from buckets, cans, pool covers and pet water dishes. Change water in bird baths every three to four days.

For more information about West Nile virus, visit www.idph.state.ia.us.

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