An official website of the United States government
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Mosquitoes transmit West Nile Virus

  • Published
  • 375th Medical Group
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --  Cases of the West Nile Virus are occurring at a higher rate than normal throughout the United States. So far this year Illinois has reported 11 cases. While still not a very common disease, it is important to know how to protect against it. WNV is a disease found in birds and is transmitted to people primarily through the bite of an infected mosquito. The common house mosquito is considered to be the usual type of mosquito that transmits the virus in the U.S.

When people become infected with WNV, they often show no signs of illness or disease. If symptoms are present, they often resemble the flu and people may experience the following signs and symptoms: fever, headache, backache, fatigue, and nausea. If members experience these signs and symptoms they should seek medical care as soon as possible. Most people will recover from an infection completely within two weeks, but the disease can be fatal, especially in older people or those with other illnesses. People infected with WNV do not pass the virus to other people. In rare cases the infection may be transmitted through blood transfusions and tissue transplants.

There is no vaccine to prevent WNV. The best protection against WNV and other vector-borne illnesses is to avoid mosquito bites. This can be accomplished in a number of ways: just remember the "6 - Ds":

Drain standing water

· Keep rain gutters and downspouts clear of leaves and debris

· Remove water in old tires, tin cans, buckets, drums, bottles, etc.

· Empty plastic wading pools at least once a week and store indoors when not in use

· Store boats covered or upside down

· Change water in bird baths at least once every week

· Change your pet's outdoor water bowls daily

· Keep weeds and tall grass cut short

Dawn and Dusk: Stay indoors

Dress: Wear protective clothing such as long-sleeved shirts and pants.

Defend: Use an insect repellent containing DEET on any exposed skin.

Door: Ensure doors and screens are in good condition.

At Scott, Public Health monitors the number and type of mosquitoes and coordinates control measures with base entomology. In base housing the contractor manages the entomology program. If you have questions or concerns contact Public Health at 256-4986.