Red Lake Hospital Infection Prevention

Mosquitoes and West Nile Virus

West Nile Virus is a strain of encephalitis, a serious and sometimes deadly viral disease that can be carried by some mosquitoes. First found in the U.S. in 1999. West Nile Virus has been reported in 46 states. It is reported to cause 115 deaths in the United States, according to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

Who is at risk:

People over the age of 50, young children, and those with condition that compromise the immune systems may have more severe symptoms.

Symptoms:

Usually occurs between 5-15 days after a bite from an infected mosquito. In the early stages, these symptoms may include:

Severe headache

Fever

Nausea and vomiting

Disorientation

Chills

Muscles aches, pain, stiffness, or all three

Tips for Preventing Mosquito Bites:

When outdoors, use insect repellant. Follow the direction on the package.

Make sure to choose a product that is right for your activity, as this varies with time and relates to effectiveness.

Wear long sleeve shirts, shoes, socks

Make sure all of your window screens fit tightly and in good repair.

Empty buckets, cans and other receptacles to prevent water from collecting

Additional Tips

Do not allow children to apply insect repellents themselves

Red Lake Indian Hospital

Roberta Williams, BSN, RN

Infection Practitioner/Employee Health

(218) 679-3912