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West Nile Virus


West Nile virus (WNV) potentially can cause serious and sometimes fatal illnesses such as encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord). The easiest and best way to avoid WNV is to prevent mosquito bites since the virus is most often spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. The virus usually infects birds, but it can be spread to humans by mosquitoes that feed on infected birds and then bite humans.

Historically, West Nile virus has been found in parts of Africa, West Asia, Eastern Europe and the Middle East. It was first identified in the United States in 1999. Since then, the virus has traveled across the United States following the migratory patterns of birds. Experts believe WNV is established as a seasonal epidemic in North America that flares up in the summer and continues into the fall.

The DeKalb County Board of Health is working with other local, state and federal agencies to minimize the risk of infections from West Nile virus in DeKalb County, metro Atlanta, and Georgia.

To protect yourself and your family from West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne diseases:

• Avoid mosquito bites
o Apply insect repellent. DEET (N, N-diethyl-meta-toluamide), picaridin and oil of lemon eucalyptus are effective repellents recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
o When possible, wear long-sleeves, long pants and socks.
o Use extra care when mosquitoes are most active. The mosquitoes that are more likely to carry West Nile virus are most active from dusk to dawn. However, some mosquitoes that are active during the day also have been known to carry the virus.
• Mosquito-proof your home
o Drain or eliminate standing water including items such as plant dishes, toys and buckets.
o Make sure roof gutters are clean and drain properly.
o Remove trash even small items like bottle caps.
o Install or repair window screens.