Humans contract West Nile virus (WNV) through the bite of mosquitoes. Symptoms may vary from mild (abdominal pain, diarrhea, fever, headache.) to severe (confusion, coma, muscle weakness.). While there are approximately 50 different species of mosquitoes in Nebraska, most mosquitoes do not transmit WNV.
SWNPHD works with the State of Nebraska to track the presence of WNV through mosquito trapping during the summer months. Mosquitoes are sent to the state laboratory for testing. This information helps combat the spread of WNV.
Public awareness and education is done through newspaper, radio medium, social media outlets as well as, Program Managers presenting to organizational groups and at health fairs.
Although the chances of a person becoming ill are small, there are some simple steps you can take to reduce the chances of becoming infected with WNV.
Protection for yourself and others
- Ensure all doors and windows fit properly, and are equipped with tight fitting, fine mesh screen.
- Wear light colored, loose fitting, long sleeved shirt and pants.
- Minimize outdoor activity during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active. Mosquitoes can be found in tall grass, bushes, and moist vegetation during the day.
- Equip baby carriages and strollers with fine mesh netting to protect infants.
- Use an EPA approved insect repellent on ankles, wrists, neck and ears; avoid areas around eyes, nose and mouth. Follow the manufactures instructions on when to reapply. DO NOT use on cuts, scrapes or on infants or pets.
- Wash all skin treated with repellent once you have returned indoors.
- Vaccinate horses with the WNV vaccine in the spring. West Nile Innovator Vaccines
Homeowner Control Tips
- Get rid of old tires, cans, bottles, jars, buckets, drums, or other containers, or keep them drained. Standing water in clogged gutters can also raise mosquitoes.
- Empty your small toddler-size plastic wading pool weekly and store it indoors when not in use. Make sure your backyard swimming pool is properly cared for while on vacation.
- Repair leaky pipes, outside faucets, and move air conditioner drain hoses frequently. Eliminate puddles created by lawn watering procedures.
- Change water and scrub vases holding flowers or cuttings twice each week - or grow cuttings in sand; scrub and change water in bird baths twice weekly; empty watering cans and pet dishes daily.
- If you are unable to drain standing water use mosiquito dunks. These are safe for people, fish, animals, and birds.