First Human Case of West Nile in Massachusetts

Posted on September 5, 2013

mosquito A1 Exterminators The state Department of Public Health announced last week that a man in his 70’s from Plymouth County was diagnosed with the first case of human West Nile. The man, was still in the hospital, but is recovering, according to DPH.

Investigators are still trying to figure out where the man was exposed to infected mosquitoes. Thirty-three people were infected with West Nile in 2012.

Symptoms usually include fever and flu-like sickness. Here are a few steps to avoid mosquito bites:
Apply Insect Repellent when Outdoors — Use a repellent with DEET. DEET products should not be used on infants under two months of age and should be used in concentrations of 30% or less on older children. Oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under three years of age.
Be Aware of Peak Mosquito Hours – The hours from dusk to dawn are peak biting times for many mosquitoes. Consider rescheduling outdoor activities that occur during evening or early morning.
Clothing Can Help Reduce Mosquito Bites — Wearing long-sleeves, long pants and socks when outdoors will help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.
Drain Standing Water — Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Limit the number of places around your home for mosquitoes to breed by either draining or discarding items that hold water. Check rain gutters and drains. Empty any unused flowerpots and wading pools, and change water in birdbaths frequently.
Repair Screens — Keep mosquitoes outside by having tightly-fitting screens on all of your windows and doors.
Article source: http://boston.cbslocal.com/2013/08/26/plymouth-county-man-first-human-case-of-west-nile-in-massachusetts-this-year/

Tagged with: DEET, human case west nile, Mosquito, prevention, west nile, west nile virus

First Human Case of West Nile in Massachusetts

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