With mosquito season in full swing, it’s time to get serious about protecting ourselves from bites. The Bell County Public Health District’s Mosquito Monitoring and Surveillance Program has issued an alert, having detected West Nile Virus in the 76579 zip code area.
This is a an important reminder, as cases of West Nile occur during mosquito season, which lasts from summer through the fall.
What is West Nile Virus?
West Nile Virus (WNV) is a disease for which there are currently no vaccines or medicines to prevent. The best and only way to prevent it is to protect yourself from mosquito bites.
It’s important to know:
- Most people who become infected with West Nile Virus do not feel sick.
- About 1 in 5 infected people will develop a fever and other symptoms.
- About 1 out of 150 infected people can develop a serious, and sometimes fatal, illness.
Symptoms to Watch For
For those who do get sick, symptoms can include fever, headache, body aches, vomiting, diarrhea, or a rash.
How to “Fight the Bite”
The flyer provides several key prevention tips to keep you safe:
- Use Insect Repellent: This is a key step when heading outdoors.
- Wear Long Clothing: Put on long-sleeved shirts and pants to minimize exposed skin.
- Treat Clothing and Gear: For extra protection, you can also treat your clothing and gear.
- Control Mosquitoes: Take steps to manage the mosquito population in and around your home, both indoors and outdoors.
Stay safe and vigilant this season!