Signs & Symptoms of West Nile Virus
Precautions You Can Take To Avoid West Nile Virus
Obviously, the threat of West Nile Virus has effected the outdoor enthusiasts in a big way! Camping, hiking, biking, fishing, golfing - all outdoor activities are now influenced by teensy mosquitoes that pack a big bite. Small, yet unattractively powerful.
Just how does the Outdoorsman or woman contract the virus?
When mosquitoes feed on infected birds, the virus is stored in their salivary glands. In turn, when the mosquito bites a human or an animal, it virtually injects the virus which then multiples in the bloodstream, causing illness.
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Though current statistics indicate that only one is every three individuals that get bitten by an infected mosquito contract West Nile, the fact remains that it is a concern that the outdoor enthusiast cannot ignore.
What precautions can you take?
- DEET; for adults - spray tenting, bedrolls and netting thoroughly and allow to dry before use. However, do not treat your kid's area with DEET.
- Wear long-sleeved clothing when exploring the Great Outdoors.
- Cover your head and your feet wisely.
- Avoid perfumes and colognes which can attract insects.
- Your risk is higher from dusk to dawn, so try to schedule your outdoor activities during the 'safer' times of day.
- Be especially careful when visiting areas that support standing water, including all ponds and lakes. DEET yourself before entering these 'danger zones' or before enjoying any outdoor activity. Mosquitoes are also prevalent during daylight hours, just not as active as they are at night.
- If you've brought your pet along for the fun, be sure and treat them. Horses are especially susceptible to the virus; be sure to have them vaccinated.
- Don't trust a campfire or an ultrasonic device to keep you safe from biting mosquitoes.
- Store all food stuff, including liquids, in sealed containers.
- When choosing a camping spot, avoid areas that support fruit trees which tend to attract insects.
If you've recently enjoyed the Great Outdoors and suddenly come down with the following symptoms, seek professional help as soon as possible:
Symptoms can include:
fever
body aches
skin rash
swollen lymph glands
Symptoms in the advanced stages of the virus can include:
headache
high fever
neck stiffness
stupor
disorientation
coma
tremors
convulsions
muscle weakness
paralysis
death
Most infections are mild, however death can occur. The incubation period in humans from infection to onset of the symptoms is usually 3-15 days.
