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| West Nile Encephalitis |
{wnv birds mosquitoes pic} |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is West Nile encephalitis?
West Nile encephalitis (WNE) is an infection of the brain caused by West Nile virus (WNV). It is closely related to St. Louis encephalitis virus found in the US and to Kunjin virus in Australia and parts of South East Asia.
How do people get WNV?
Most often by the bite of a mosquito that is infected with WNV. However, a number of cases are suspected to be transmitted through blood transfusions, organ donation, breast milk, and through hand cuts in lab workers handling infected birds
How can I reduce the risk of WN infection?
Remove or clean up any mosquito-breeding sites on your property. Stagnant water is a breeding ground for mosquitos. Make sure that trash cans are not left outside uncovered, wading pools are covered or emptied, and other sources of stagnant water are eliminated.
Keep mosquitos out of your house. Be sure your window screens are in good condition.
Stay indoors at dawn, dusk, and in the early evening during mosquito active periods (Usually April – October).
Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when you are outdoors.
Apply approved insect repellent to exposed skin. Follow all manufacturers instructions.
Do not handle dead or sick birds directly. Use gloves or a long-handled shovel and bury them if not accepted for lab testing, otherwise use double or triple plastic bags and seal with a twist-tie before disposal.
Where can I get more information on pesticides used to control mosquitoes? Visit the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) website on Pesticides and Mosquito Control
Can pets get WNV? Yes. Cats, crows and horses have tested positive for WNV. In addition, dogs, many other species of wild and domestic birds (chickens, ducks, geese and turkeys) have tested positive for WNV.
Should a dog or cat with WNV be destroyed? No. There is no reason to destroy an animal just because it has been infected. Full recovery from the infection is likely.
What are the signs of WNV in a horse? In a small number of horses the virus can cause encephalitis, which may kill the animal. Signs include: loss of appetite, depression, fever, weakness of hind legs, paralysis, impaired vision, ataxia, head pressing or head tilt, aimless wandering, convulsions, inability to swallow, circling, hyperexcitability, or coma.. Visit the Penn State Extension website for more information on horses and WNV.
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Content Last Modified on 8/30/2010 2:36:21 PM
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