CONSUMER ALERTS

June 2009

Protect yourself from West Nile Virus

Summer’s just beginning, so you and your family most likely will be spending more time outdoors. Unfortunately, mosquitoes often will be joining you as you enjoy the warm weather. While most mosquito bites are just minor annoyances, educating yourself about the symptoms of West Nile Virus—which is frequently transmitted through mosquito bites—can help you keep your summer worry-free.

With the free West Nile Virus fact sheet from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Office of Women’s Health and the Federal Citizen Information Center (FCIC), you’ll learn the symptoms of both West Nile Virus and the less-severe West Nile Virus fever. Symptoms of West Nile Virus fever include body aches, headache and skin rash. West Nile Virus symptoms are more serious and include muscle weakness, numbness and loss of vision. In rare situations, West Nile Virus can lead to permanent health problems or death, so it’s important to know the symptoms and see your doctor immediately if you’re experiencing them. People older than 50 and those who already have health problems are more likely to get very sick if they get West Nile Virus. 

There are protective measures you can take to reduce your risk of being bitten by mosquitoes. Use bug spray that contains permethrin or DEET. When applying, be sure to follow the directions. Do not use it on children younger than 2 years old and don’t apply it to sunburned skin, cuts, rashes, or other skin conditions. After you use the bug spray, wash your clothes before you wear them again.

Get rid of standing water (such as in flower pots, buckets, barrels, and tire swings)—mosquitoes can breed in standing water. Change the water in outdoor pet dishes and bird baths often. Keep children’s wading pools empty and set on their sides when not in use.

Stay inside during those times when a lot of mosquitoes are out (in the evening or dusk until dawn). Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and don’t put on perfume or cologne when you plan to be outside for a long time. 

Install screens on your windows and doors.

Find out if there is a mosquito control program in your area.

Learn more from your free West Nile Virus fact sheet. Send your name and address to the Federal Citizen Information Center, Dept. 562R, Pueblo, CO 81009, call toll-free: 1 (888) 8 PUEBLO (that’s 1 (888) 878-3256) and ask for Item 562R, or visit www.pueblo.gsa.gov to read or print this and hundreds of other FCIC publications for free.