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No New West Nile Virus Activity in Kiowa CountyAugust 22, 2003 As of August 15, 2003 there has been no further West Nile Virus activity in Kiowa County. On July 27 mosquitoes were collected from two different sites and sent to the state for testing and we are still awaiting results. On August 18 we again collected more mosquitoes for testing. Some common WNV questions we have had calls about are "why does Colorado have so much WNV this Year"? Colorado is reporting all cases of WNV including WNV fever, meningitis and encephalitis. This reporting will be valuable epidemiologic information for appropriate public health response measures. The other states have only been reporting WNV meningitis and/or encephalitis cases. Another cause is this is the second year, good mosquito weather, good mosquito vector and a good surveillance system moving a great deal of information quickly. Another common question "how do I prevent getting WNV"? Your best protection against getting bit by a mosquito is wearing insect repellant which contains DEET (10% or less for children). When interviewing the people who tested positive for WNV 67% said they never wore repellant, 17% sometimes wore it and 5% was unknown. Other measures to prevent the illness: DRAIN standing water around the house weekly since its where mosquitoes lay eggs, drain tires, cans, flowerpots, clogged rain gutters, rain barrels, toys and puddles. Mosquito dunks are still available for $10.00 at our office. These can be used in bird baths, tree holes, and water gardens.
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DUSK & DAWN are when mosquitoes that carry the virus are most active, so limit outdoor activities or take precautions to avoid mosquito bites. DRESS in long sleeves and pants during dawn and dusk or in areas where mosquitoes are active. For more information on West Nile Virus please call Kiowa County Nursing Service at (719) 438-5782, you can visit the state website at www.fightthebitecolorado.com, or call the toll-free Colorado hotline at 1-877-462-2911.
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