Mosquitoes: Knowing the threat

Did you know about the mosquitoes in your backyard?

Mosquitoes are not only a nuisance, but some may also carry diseases. The 72nd Medical Group Public Health Office conducts weekly mosquito surveillance during the months of April through late October to identify specific disease threats from local mosquito species in our area, and then use this info to educate the public on how to protect themselves from the disease threat.  Public Health also shares mosquito surveillance data with the Civil Engineering Pest Management shop to identify and implement proper control measures such as spraying, fogging or in some cases introducing larvicide to standing water sources to eliminate mosquito larvae.

West Nile virus has been detected throughout Oklahoma this year, so being aware is especially important. Oklahoma Health Departments identified positive specimens, primarily early in the summer. A total of 20 positive human cases of WNV have been identified this year so far, with zero fatalities. WNV positive specimens are identified as far as late October here in Oklahoma.

What is West Nile virus? A virus that is most commonly spread by an infected mosquito. People become infected by the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes are typically infected by feeding on infected birds.

Is it here? West Nile virus has been detected in mosquitoes trapped on base this year (six positive mosquito specimens) and last year (56 positive mosquito specimens). Mosquitoes were trapped near wooded areas and around slow-moving or stagnant bodies of water, such as near the running loop surrounding Mitchell Heights housing area and near Park #4.

Who is at risk? Any individual living in the lower 48 states is at risk. People working outdoors or those that participate in outdoor activities have a higher probability of becoming infected.

Symptoms and Treatment

The incubation period is 2-14 days. Most people will not experience any symptoms, others may develop a fever with flu-like symptoms. In very rare cases (less than 1 percent), individuals may develop severe neurological complications that include encephalitis or meningitis.

The primary treatment is supportive care. Complete recovery is expected in the majority of infected individuals.

Prevention

By preventing mosquito bites, you will not be infected. An effective way of preventing mosquito bites is using the three Ds devised by the American Mosquito Control Association (AMCA) - Drain, Dress, and Defend. Drain any standing water from containers once a week, Dress in long sleeves and long pants to limit exposed skin, and Defend yourself with approved repellent such as DEET or lemon eucalyptus oil. Following the three Ds prevents a majority of potential mosquito bites and protects individuals from contracting an infection.

Also, take extra care during peak mosquito biting hours, specifically by using repellent and protective clothing from dusk to dawn or consider avoiding outdoor activities during these times.

Mosquito-Proof Your Home

Install or repair screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes outside. Use your air conditioning, if you have it.

Help reduce the number of mosquitoes around your home by emptying standing water from flowerpots, gutters, buckets, pool covers, pet water dishes, discarded tires, and birdbaths on a regular basis.

If you are traveling outside the United States, visit Tinker Public Health for traveling recommendations. Tinker Public Health will provide travel recommendations concerning vaccinations for local diseases in the area, as well as education on appropriate preventive measures to protect yourself from contracting disease during your travel. For more detailed information, you may also visit the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/westnile/ or call Tinker Public Health at (405) 582-6542.