West Nile Disease is showing rising number of confirmed cases in Katy Texas

West Nile Disease is showing rising number of confirmed cases in Katy Texas.

The number of confirmed cases of West Nile disease increased in Fort Bend County this past weekend by three with two of the cases coming from Katy Texas. The total of confirmed cases in Fort Bend County is now at eight with four cases originating in Katy. There have been no deaths reported due to this disease which is good news.

The most likely symptoms suffered by victims of West Nile Fever include, fever, headache, sore throat, body aches, fatigue, skin rash and swollen lymph glands. The more serious version named West Nile Neuroinvasive Disease symptoms include headache, high fever, still neck, disorientation, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, coma and paralysis. The confirmed cases have included three cases of the serious strain.

Here are my quick tips for reducing the risk of West Nile disease.

·        Use some type mosquito repellant when outdoors showing less than 10% DEET when children are involved. Other repellants to consider include lemon eucalyptus oil, Picaridin (?), and something called IR3535 as recommended by Centers for Disease Control.

·        Look all around the outside of your home and eliminate all standing water.

·        Lawn clippings should never be thrown into a sewer or drain.

·        Check all screens to make sure they are in good condition before opening doors and windows. Most folks here rarely open their windows but do leave doors open to let in fresh air.

·        Birdbaths and decorative ponds should be clean and change the water frequently.

·        When going outside wear long pants and shirts of preferable lighter colored.

·        Controlling mosquitos inside the home may require spraying a “flying insect spray”.

·        Clean out all gutters.

·        Cover all boats and store these in a covered space.

·        Turn over all canoes, kayaks and small boats so storage is upside down.

Watch for mosquitos in your yard and surroundings and be careful. Go to the Doctor right away when the symptoms of the disease arise.