Public health officials have issued some practical tips for preventing the mosquito-borne disease West Nile Virus, which invaded the United States several years ago. Generally transmitted to humans through mosquito bites, West Nile Virus often causes alarm when initial cases are reported in communities.

The good news is that West Nile Virus isn't contagious like the cold or the flu. Except for a few very rare exceptions such as breastfeeding, humans don't pass West Nile Virus on to other humans.

Furthermore, 4 out 5 cases of West Nile Virus are asymptomatic. About 99 out of every 100 cases do not cause brain infections such as meningitis or encephalitis. However, the 1 out of 100 cases of West Nile Virus that does affect the brain can be deadly. It's smart, then, to play it safe and avoid mosquito bites as much as possible. To do so, keep these four tips in mind:

• Use mosquito repellent. Look for repellents that contain DEET, Picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
• Eliminate mosquito breeding sites. Empty standing water from flower pots, and refresh the water in birdbaths and pets' water containers at least twice a week.
• Cover up. When possible, wear long-sleeve shirts and pants. Use screens on windows and doors. If you're outside with an infant, place mosquito netting around your infant carrier.
• Stay in during the peak periods. Mosquitoes are most likely to bite during dawn, dusk, and early evening in the warmer months.

Want to learn more? Visit Healia Communities and Ask an Expert. You can also connect with others who are talking about West Nile Virus by joining Healia’s Health Community for West Nile Virus .


_{Photo: CDC/ Prof. Frank Hadley Collins, Public Health Image Library}

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West Nile Virus prevention mosquito bites repellent