DGMC offers advice on West Nile virus

  • Published
  • By Capt. Jeremiah Johnson
  • 60th Aerospace Medicine Squadron
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  As we approach the Labor Day weekend and the end of summer, it's important for Team Travis to be aware we are still in the midst of the West Nile virus season. 

In Northern California, as the weather cools, mosquitoes will be out in higher numbers and with that comes an increased risk for infection. 

On July 31, Solano County Health officials announced confirmation of a dead American crow testing positive for WNV. This was the first recorded case in Solano County during the 2009 season. To date, there have been no human cases of WNV in Solano County this year, but there has been one reported case in California. 

To maximize the safety of Team Travis, the Public Health Flight at David Grant USAF Medical Center offers the following information to help keep the number of human infections at zero this year. 

Mosquitoes become infected by acquiring the virus after biting an infected bird. Humans are at risk for infection if they are bitten by one of these infected mosquitoes. While most individuals infected with WNV will not experience symptoms, about 20 percent will. 

Typical symptoms include fever, headache, general body weakness, muscle and joint pain, and occasional nausea and vomiting. 

People who need to be the most cautious are the elderly and those with a weakened immune system from illnesses such as HIV/AIDS or someone undergoing treatment for cancer. 

To decrease the risk of infection, it is important that everyone stay vigilant by reducing the opportunity for mosquito bites. One of the best ways to do this is eliminate their breeding grounds. Mosquito breeding grounds include any area of standing water. 

Below is a short list of places around your home that may be potential mosquito breeding sites.
 
· Standing water in flower pots, buckets, and barrels;
· A pet's water dish, if not changed daily, and bird baths;
· Tire swings (drill a few holes in them to allow water drainage);
· Children's wading pools. 

Since most areas on Travis are not accessible to local mosquito control authorities, it's up to you to protect your homes. 

Additionally, given the economic impact of the last year, a number of foreclosures in neighboring civilian communities have lead to many outdoor pools being left unattended. These are potential breeding grounds. If you are aware of unmaintained pools, the Solano County Mosquito Abatement District manager asks to report these to the district by calling 437-1116. 

To ensure you are taking all necessary measures to prevent infection, Dr. Ronald W. Chapman, Solano County Public Health official, urges residents to remember the five D's of prevention:
 
· Dawn and dusk: Wear pants and long-sleeve shirts when you are going to be out at these times;
· DEET: Use insect repellent that contains DEET or non-DEET alternatives such as picaridin and oil of lemon eucalyptus;
· Doors and windows: Make sure screens are tight fitting and doors close completely;
· Drain: Remove standing water around your house or use mosquito fish in areas that accumulate water. Mosquitoes can lay their eggs in as little as several tablespoons of standing water. Mosquito fish are available free of charge through the Solano County Mosquito Abatement District, and;
· Dead birds: Report dead birds online at www.westnile.ca.gov or by calling 1-877-WNV-BIRD. Citizen reports of dead birds help the state track WNV and can also be important in predicting where human cases may occur. 

Although there is no evidence West Nile virus can be acquired by handling dead birds, it is best not to handle any dead bird with your bare hands. Use gloves, a shovel, or a plastic bag to place the bird in a trash bag for disposal. Do not freeze dead birds. 

For more information, contact DGMC's Public Health Flight at 423-5464 or visit the WNV websites at http://www.cdc.gov/ or http://www.westnile.ca.gov/.