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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Polly Carver-Kimm
Polly.Carver-Kimm@idph.iowa.gov
IDPH Urges Iowans to be Mindful of West Nile Virus
The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) reminds Iowans
it is very important to use insect repellent to protect against mosquito bites,
especially if spending extra time outdoors over the long Labor Day weekend. West
Nile virus is transmitted through mosquitoes.
“Our West Nile virus numbers are
increasing significantly,” said IDPH Deputy State Epidemiologist, Dr. Ann
Garvey. There are currently 18 confirmed cases of West Nile virus in Iowa and
16 are under investigation. There have been two deaths attributed to West Nile
virus this season.
The best way to prevent West Nile
virus is to eliminate mosquito breeding areas and to use insect repellent when
outdoors. Iowans should take the following steps to reduce the risk of exposure
to West Nile virus:
- Use insect repellent with DEET, picaridin,
IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Always read the repellent label and consult
with a health care provider if you have questions when using these types of
products for children. For example, DEET should not be used on infants less
than 2 months old and oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children
under 3 years old.
- Avoid outdoor activities at dusk and dawn when
mosquitoes are most active.
- Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, shoes, and
socks whenever possible outdoors.
- Eliminate standing water around the home because
that's where mosquitoes lay eggs. Empty water from buckets, cans, pool covers
and pet water dishes. Change water in bird baths every three to four days.
About 20 percent of people infected with West Nile virus will have mild to
moderate symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches and vomiting. Less than
one percent of people infected become seriously ill and rarely, someone dies.
Since West Nile first appeared in Iowa in 2002, it has been found in every
county in Iowa, either in humans, horses, or birds. In 2017, 12 Iowans were
diagnosed with West Nile virus and two Iowans died.
For more information about West Nile virus, visit https://www.idph.iowa.gov/cade/vectorborne-illness.
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