Q's and A's Regarding West Nile Disease- Keep Yourself Safe

Q's and A's Regarding West Nile Disease- Keep Yourself Safe

Did you know many people have gotten sick and died of West Nile Disease in the past 13 years?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 30,000 people in the US have been diagnosed with the disease and over 1,200 have died. Not all cases are properly diagnosed so the odds are there are many more cases and more deaths. 

What is the mosquito’s active season?

From April to October yearly is the active mosquito season. The freezing weather kills off the disease.

 What time do they actively bite?

Typically from dusk to dawn but there is a few that will bite in the day time.

 Where do the mosquitoes normally lay their eggs?

They do not need a whole swimming pool but just a cup of water will serve their needs. You can find standing water in old tires, water spouts, bird baths, toys or flower pots in your yard and of course the pool or spa in your yard.

 So they just lay eggs into the water?

No, they like to find the edges of the body of water where there is mulch or grass to hold the eggs until they hatch.

 How long does it take for eggs to hatch?

It takes approximately 10 days for the mosquito eggs to hatch.

How does the disease typically spread?

Birds normally carry the disease and hurricanes and strong winds carry the birds to new areas.  

 How does WND spread?

Mosquitoes bite humans and birds. 

 Are there things I can do to reduce the chances of getting mosquitoes and the West Nile disease?

1.     Put yellow bulbs in your porch lights which tend to deter mosquitoes from flying by the door.

2.     Inspect your yard regularly and make sure there is not any standing water.

3.     If you have a lot of mosquitoes, call a licensed pest control company to come out and inspect.

4.     Stay inside from dusk to dawn.

5.     Use a good insect repellent to deter mosquitoes. 

6.     Wear protective clothing.

7.     Do not handle dead animals without using gloves and wash your hands afterwards. 

8.     Most cities or counties want you to call them if you find a dead animal and they will send someone to remove it and test it for diseases.

What are the odds of getting West Nile Disease?

Typically 1 in 5 people who are bitten by a mosquito might come down with the disease. Of this number, 70-80% will not have any symptoms and never even know they had it. A few might experience more symptoms; aches, headache, neck stiffness, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Less than 1% might develop more severe symptoms like encephalitis or meningitis and these people will need to be put in the hospital and treated. There is no vaccine or pill to take to rid yourself of WND.

The only good mosquito is a DEAD mosquito!