Ward off mosquitoes, virus

Get ready for a barrage of uninvited guests. No, we're not talking about your family reunion.

We're talking mosquitoes, perhaps the worst mosquito season in two decades, according to public health officials. Aside from the misery of itchy bites, mosquitoes can carry West Nile virus. Detection of the virus occurred earlier this year than in previous years, which means Utahns need to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites and to become aware of symptoms of the virus if they have been bitten.

Unlike the symptoms of the H1N1 flu virus, West Nile has no respiratory involvement — no congestion, coughing or sneezing. Rather, it presents itself with body aches, fever, perhaps a rash and fatigue. The symptoms may progress to West Nile fever, symptoms of which include a severe headache and/or stiff neck. In Utah, there have been eight deaths attributed to West Nile virus since 2003, among 318 confirmed cases.

Like many viral infections, the old, young and frail are more prone to developing serious illness than others. In fact, most people who become infected with West Nile experience no symptoms, and about 20 percent will develop flu-like indicators, with the exception of respiratory issues.

The best way to avoid West Nile virus infection is to prevent mosquito bites. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the following:

 Use insect repellent containing DEET or Picaridin while outdoors;

 Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants while outdoors;

 Secure and/or repair window screens;

 Eliminate standing water in containers or tires that may serve as mosquito breeding grounds;

 Change the water in birdbaths weekly; and,

 Trim weeds and grasses.

As public health threats go, West Nile virus receives a lot of attention each summer, and perhaps more so this year because of an unusually wet June that will likely result in a bumper crop of mosquitoes.

Prevention efforts are warranted but this is just one hazard of summer. Utahns would do well to develop habits that help prevent injury and disease year-round.