Off-Base West Nile Virus Bird Cases Serve as Reminder to Stay Safe

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  • Public Health
GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  Two birds in Grand Forks County have recently tested positive for West Nile Virus.

These were the first positive West Nile Virus tests in the county this year. There have been no human cases of West Nile Virus in Grand Forks County in 2013; however, human West Nile Virus cases have already been reported in other parts of the country this year.

West Nile Virus is an infection transmitted by mosquitoes. Most West Nile virus infections occur during warm weather, when mosquito populations are active. Most people bitten by an infected mosquito do not experience any signs or symptoms or may experience only minor ones, such as fever and mild headache. These mild symptoms usually go away without medical attention. Rarely some people may develop severe signs and symptoms such as a severe headache, disorientation or sudden weakness.

Those most at risk are people ages 50 and older and those with compromised immune symptoms.

The best way to prevent West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne illnesses is to avoid exposure to mosquitoes and eliminate mosquito-breeding sites.

To help control West Nile virus:

Mosquitoes breed in pools of standing water, so eliminate standing water in your yard. Unclog roof gutters. Change water in birdbaths at least weekly. Remove old tires or any unused containers that might hold water and serve as a breeding place for mosquitoes.

To reduce your own exposure to mosquitoes:

Avoid unnecessary outdoor activity when mosquitoes are most prevalent, such as dawn, dusk and early evening. Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when you go into mosquito-infested areas. Apply an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-approved mosquito repellent with DEET to your skin and clothing, closely following the application directions on the product.

Mosquito repellents with DEET should not be applied to babies 6 months old or less. When applying these products to children, spray the product on your own hands first and then apply the product to the child with your hands. Avoid treating the face and hands of children. When outside, cover your infant's stroller or playpen with mosquito netting.

More information on West Nile Virus is available at http://www.ndhealth.gov/wnv/