More On West Nile Virus In The News

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It was reported today on CNN that this year’s West Nile Virus outbreak is the largest ever recorded with over 1000 people being affected and 41 deaths.

In general I don’t share a lot of the main stream media news because often times it’s a bit slanted and bad news is usually hyped up for readers and ratings.  I don’t care to support that, but this particular article on CNN.com does actually note some useful information as it goes along.

We reported last week that the state of Texas  has begun aerial spraying in order to control the mosquito outbreak, and I’ve visited recently with a friend in the Dallas area who became concerned about his Koi when the spraying was conducted over his neighborhood.  For now all appears to be fine with the fish.

Hopefully some positive results will come from the spraying, but most research has shown that the best way to control mosquito outbreaks is at the larval stage or before…meaning you stop them from breeding or hinder their productive activity.

Sometimes this is easier said than done but it makes sense to clean up any standing water you may have around your home.

We don’t necessarily agree with the use of DEET based repellents but that’s a personal choice you have to make for yourself.  DEET does repel mosquitoes in most cases but there are also pretty effective non-cheimical deterrents too.  And localized control may be worthwhile using a mosquito or insect trap that can at least cut down on the odds of being bitten.

As the article noted, most mosquitoes don’t carry West Nile and the vast majority of people that get bitten will not show any symptoms at all.  Still, this is small consolation for those that do actually get sick.

So, through the remaider of the summer and early fall, do the things you can do to protect yourself while outdoors and if you do get bitten and find yourself not feeling well a week or two afterwards, be sure to consult with your doctor and get proper treatment.

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