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Battle the bite

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  • 72nd Aerospace Medicine Squadron Public Health Office
TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  It's that time of year again and we need to make sure we are protecting our families from insect bites. West Nile Virus season is currently in full swing and the best way to prevent the spread of disease is to stop the insect's ability to bite.

What is West Nile Virus? The Centers for Disease Control describes the virus as a potentially serious illness. Infected mosquitoes spread WNV to humans and other animals when they bite. Symptoms usually develop between three days and two weeks after being bit by the infected mosquito. Up to 20 percent of infected people develop mild, flu-like symptoms, which typically resolve without medical treatment. Less than 1 percent of people develop serious symptoms lasting up to several weeks. Approximately 80 percent of people who become infected with WNV will not show symptoms. Individuals over 50 years of age and anyone who spends time outdoors are at higher risk of developing WNV. Although not every mosquito is infected, everyone is reminded to take proper safety measures to combat all insect bites.

The most effective way of protecting your family members this season is by avoiding insect bites. The Oklahoma City-County Health Department implemented the four D's:
· Dusk to dawn: During dark hours, ensure your family takes the proper precautions, as insect activity is highest during this time.

· Dress: Ensure proper clothing is worn that limits skin exposure. This may include long sleeves with cuffs and long pants.

· DEET: Remember to have an insect repellent containing DEET during this season and use on any exposed skin. As an alternative to DEET, the CDC also recommends the use of an insect repellent containing Picaridin. Both these insecticides contain active ingredients that have been registered with the EPA for use on skin or clothing. Find more information at the CDC website http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/ qa/insect_repellent.htm.

· Drainage: Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water. Regularly check your home for any water accumulation and regularly drain items that hold stagnant water; this includes pet water dishes.

These preventive measures apply to all other diseases spread by insects such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, which are spread by infected ticks.

Watch for signs of illness such as rash or fever and see a health care provider if these develop. Be sure to tell your provider about the insect bite, including when and where the bite occurred.

For more information, visit the Oklahoma State Department of Health West Nile information at: www.ok.gov/health or call Tinker Public Health at 582-6542.