Reduce Risk of West Nile Virus Infection

There is no way to predict how serious West Nile Virus will be in any given year. Most infections of WNV will result in no symptoms. About 1 in 5 people who are infected will feel sick but will recover on their own. It is estimated that approximately one in 150 persons infected with the WNV virus will develop a more severe form of disease.

While anyone can be infected with WNV, the chances of having a severe illness are greater as you get older or if you have a weakened immune system. Children are not at greater risk of illness from WNV.

Sunscreen & Repellent

Insect repellent may reduce the effectiveness of sunscreen. When using them together, sunscreen should be applied 20 minutes before outdoor activities, followed by repellent just before going into an area with mosquitoes.
Children should always cover up and wear a hat to ensure protection from the sun. Products that combine insect repellent and sunscreen are not recommended.

Mosquitoes develop in stagnant water. You can reduce the number of mosquitoes around your home if you eliminate stagnant water on your property.

Tips on Reducing Standing Water

• A – Keep your yard clean
Uncovered garbage containers and junk piles collect water in which mosquitoes can breed.

• B – Always inspect pools and ponds
Poorly maintained pools and swimming pools can be breeding sites for mosquitoes.

• C – Clean out eaves, gutters and drains
Clogged gutters will accumulate water and create a place for mosquitoes to breed. Check flat roofs frequently for standing water.

• D – Eliminate stagnant water
Clean up and empty water in toys, birdbaths, tires, flowerpots, wheel barrows, and other garden objects where mosquitoes can breed.

• E – Maintain yards and lawns
Fill in low depressions in lawn areas. Eliminate standing water in gutters or storm drains to prevent small ponds. Install screens over catch basins. Turn compost over frequently.

• F – Fix faucets and hoses
Repair any leaks to faucets and hoses to prevent possible breeding sites. Prevent water from pooling around downspouts and air conditioners.

• G – Repair window screens and screen doors
Crawl spaces, attic vents, and broken screens allow mosquitoes to enter your home. If you don’t have screens, try to keep windows closed between dusk and dawn.

Source: http://www1.toronto.ca/wps/portal/contentonly?vgnextoid=9b25a66bffa51410VgnVCM10000071d60f89RCRD