Officials offer tips for West Nile

  • Published
  • By Al Eakle
  • 74th Medical Group Public Affairs
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio (AFPN) --  Base health officials here confirmed Sept. 4 that a sample of mosquitoes collected on base tested positive for the West Nile Virus. Other Air Force bases have reported similar discoveries.

As part of ongoing monitoring, workers at the public health flight here have been setting mosquito traps at various areas around the base.

Mosquitoes testing positive were trapped near the family campgrounds and recreational area, according to Lt. Col. Sam Hall, 74th Medical Group public health flight commander.

Although the virus can lead to serious illness or death, base officials said there is no need for alarm.

Experts estimate that only 1 percent of mosquitoes carry the virus; only 1 percent of people bitten will get sick; and fewer than 20 percent of those will suffer serious medical problems.

Public health officials offer the following suggestions to help people protect themselves and their families from the virus:

-- Avoid outdoor activities from dusk to dawn, as this is when mosquitoes are likely to bite.

-- Cover as much of the body as possible (long pants and long-sleeved shirts).

-- Wear light-colored clothes because mosquitoes are less attracted to them.

-- Use mosquito repellent containing DEET.

-- Remove all discarded tires, as they are great breeding sites for mosquitoes.

-- Clean out gutters to ensure proper drainage.

-- Keep pools clean and chlorinated.

-- Change water in birdbaths at least once a week.

-- Turn over children's wading pools after play time.

-- Eliminate any standing water that collects.

-- Remind or help neighbors to eliminate mosquito-breeding sites on their properties.

More information about the West Nile Virus is available on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Web site at www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/.