Protecting Against West Nile Virus
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Protecting Against West Nile Virus
Tip written by: Infraspection Institute
The onset of seasonably warmer weather signals that Summer has returned. For many, it also means the return of mosquitoes and the threat of West Nile virus.
West Nile Virus (WNV) infection is an illness transmitted to humans primarily by mosquitoes. Flooded areas, particularly in warm climates, provide ideal conditions for mosquitoes to breed in stagnant water. Bites from infected mosquitoes may result in illnesses which range from mild flu-like conditions (West Nile fever) to severe and sometimes life-threatening diseases requiring hospitalization (West Nile encephalitis or meningitis). If you have symptoms of severe illness, seek immediate medical assistance.
Signs & Symptoms of West Nile Fever (mild illness)
- Headache, fever, body aches
- Swollen lymph nodes, and/or a skin rash on the body
Signs & Symptoms of West Nile Encephalitis or Meningitis (severe illness)
- Headache, high fever, stiff neck
- Disorientation (in very severe cases, coma)
- Tremors, convulsions and muscle weakness (in very severe cases, paralysis
Preventing Mosquito Exposure
- Reduce or eliminate mosquito breeding grounds (i.e., sources of stagnant or standing water)
- Cover as much skin as possible by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants and socks when possible
- Avoid use of perfumes and colognes when working outdoors
- Use an insect repellent containing DEET or Picaridin on skin that is not covered by clothing
- Spray insect repellent on the outside of your clothing (mosquitoes can bite through thin clothing). Do not spray insect repellent on skin that is under clothing.
- Do not spray aerosol or pump products in enclosed areas or directly on your face. Do not allow insect repellent to contact your eyes or mouth. Do not use repellents on cuts, wounds or irritated skin.
- After working, use soap and water to wash skin and clothing that has been treated with insect repellent
- Be extra vigilant from dusk to dawn when mosquitoes are most active
Thermographer safety is one of the topics covered in all Infraspection Institute Certified Infrared Thermographer® training courses. For information on thermographer training and certification, visit us online at www.infraspection.com or call us at 609-239-4788. For more complete information on workplace safety, visit the OSHA website.
