How can West Nile virus be prevented?
The best way to protect yourself from getting West Nile virus is to prevent mosquito bites. Follow these steps to reduce your risk of being bitten by mosquitoes:
• Wear shoes and socks, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt when outdoors at dusk or dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
• Use an EPA-registered insect repellent such as those with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. These products can be used on skin or clothing. Choose a product that provides protection for the amount of time spent outdoors. Permethrin is another type of insect repellent. It can only be used on clothing. ALWAYS follow the directions on the product label.

Mosquitoes begin to breed in any puddle or standing water that lasts for more than four days. Get rid of mosquito breeding sites around the home.
• Clean out gutters and drains
• Dispose of old tires
• Drain standing water from pool covers. Keep pools chlorinated. Flip over plastic children’s pools when not in use.
• Remove all containers that hold water
• Change birdbath water every several days
• Make sure all windows and doors have screens and that all screens are in good condition.

Show All Answers

1. Who gets West Nile virus?
2. What are the symptoms of West Nile Virus?
3. Can people with West Nile Virus pass the illness to others?
4. How can West Nile virus be prevented?