West Nile Virus Confirmed In Montgomery County: How To Prevent It

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- Montgomery County officials have announce that a mosquito found in Montgomery County has tested positive for West Nile Virus. They said in a press release, accessed via the Montgomery County Police Reporter, that they are asking homeowners to do their part in the fight against West Nile and other mosquito-borne illnesses.

West Nile Virus includes mild symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, vomiting, nausea, skin rashes and swollen lymph glands. Serious symptoms, which account for about one percent of cases, include high fever, headache, tremors, seizures, paralysis, disorientation, and even coma.

The CDC says, according to the press release, that the best way to combat diseases like West Nile is to prevent mosquito bites.

"First, avoid bites by using insect repellants that contain DEET, picaridin, IR3535, and some oil of lemon eucalyptus and para-menthane-diol products and follow their directions for use," the press release says, adding that wearing long sleeves and staying indoors during from dusk to dawn can prevent bites.

Mosquito-proofing your home is another important step to take. Empty any standing water in and around your home. Repair screens and use air conditioning if available, the press release says.

80 percent of people infected do no show symptoms, according to the CDC, and the symptoms generally take three to 14 days to show.

While most West Nile Virus cases will improve on their own, severe symptoms require immediate medical attention.

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