<No one is Safe from West Nile>

NO ONE IS SAFE FROM WEST NILE

,,,,,West Nile virus (WNV) can infect anyone. Since 1999, WNV no one is safe from wnv

infections have been found all over the United States. The virus has claimed victims of all ages and health status. People over the age of 50, and those with weak immune systems are at a higher risk for acquiring WNV.

.....However, a recent study conducted by the California Department of Health Services found that people with diabetes and high blood pressure were also more likely to develop serious cases of WNV. Diabetics were four times more likely to have serious complications from WNV and people with high blood pressure were two times more likely to have serious complications from WNV.

....No one knows exactly why diabetics and people with high blood pressure are at greater risk for severe problems. However, Dr. Carol Glaser, Chief of the Viral Disease Laboratory branch at the state Department of Health Services has a few ideas. People with diabetes and high blood pressure often have weakened blood vessels. These weakened blood vessels may allow the virus to pass through the blood-brain barrier and attack the brain and the central nervous system. Another possibility is that changes in the immune systems of diabetics may allow the virus to overwhelm the body’s natural defenses.

....Most of people infected with West Nile do not develop any symptoms at all. About 20% of those infected may develop West Nile Fever, which can cause flu-like symptoms. Less than 1% of those become seriously ill with cases of meningitis or encephalitis.

Unfortunately, West Nile virus is here to stay, but the good news is that

there are many simple steps you can take to protect yourself from

mosquito bites:

• Mosquitoes need water to breed, so get rid of standing water around your home. Clean, drain, or drill holes into, anything that can hold water for more than five days, such as buckets, clogged rain gutters, old tires, plant saucers, pots, pet dishes, and children’s toys.
• Fix leaky, outdoor faucets and add mosquito-eating fish to unused green swimming pools, ornamental ponds, bird bathes and horse water troughs. Mosquito fish are available, free of charge, from County Vector Control and several nurseries and pet stores around the county. Call to find a location near you.
• Repair window and door screens so mosquitoes cannot get inside. Avoid going outdoors at dawn and dusk. But if you do, wear long pants and long-sleeved, light colored shirts. The light color will help you to see mosquitoes and the clothing makes it harder for them to bite you.
• Use insect repellents containing DEET, Picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus on exposed skin. Read the product label before applying and follow instructions carefully. If you have any questions about repellents, ask your doctor.

To help “Fight the Bite” or to learn more about West Nile virus, mosquitoes,

mosquito fish, and to report dead birds, green pools and mosquito breeding

sites, visit the County of San Diego’s Vector Control Program website, or

call: 1-888- 551-INFO (4636).

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Salud + Health Info is for information and educational purposes only. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for personal medical attention, diagnosis or hands-on treatment. If you are concerned abut your health or that of a child, please consult your family’s physician or health provider immediately and do not try and diagnose yourself.