(ROCKWALL COUNTY-April 27, 2013) West Nile Virus season has started early this year. With two cases confirmed in Dallas County and one confirmed case in Hunt County it is only a matter of time before Rockwall County is affected. While each city is responsible for its own mosquito treatment plan, Rockwall County Emergency Management encourages residents to be proactive in helping to reduce the probability of a high number of West Nile Virus cases this year.
With late spring and early summer on the way, the number of outdoor activities will increase. It is important to follow the tips below to reduce your exposure to mosquitoes that may be carrying the West Nile Virus.
Prevention
Remember the “Four Ds”:
1. DUSK/DAWN are the times of day you should try to stay indoors. This is when mosquitoes are most active.
2. DRESS in long sleeves/pants, loose and light colored clothing when outdoors.
3. DEET: Apply insect repellent that contains DEET. Read and follow label instructions. Spray both skin and clothing with
repellent.
4. DRAIN standing water in your yard and neighborhood. Flower pots, old tires, water dishes, bird baths and wading
pools can be breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
Common Symptoms
Most people who are infected with the West Nile Virus will not have any type of illness. It is estimated that 20% of the
people who become infected will have mild symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, and occasionally a skin rash on the trunk of the body and swollen lymph glands. People older than 50 have the highest risk of severe disease (West Nile neuroinvasive disease), and people with weakened immune systems are at an increased risk for West Nile virus.
Additional Information
Additional information about West Nile virus can be found through the Texas Department of State Health Services at
dshs.state.tx.us.
Submitted by Melanie Jensen, Emergency Management Specialist, Rockwall County.
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