Mosquito time has safety at forefront

It's officially mosquito season. The first positive test for West Nile Virus was reported in Webster County in June.

With the summer thunderstorms and warm weather, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services is taking steps to help Nebraskans protect themselves from the 50 different species of mosquitoes in Nebraska.

"We spend more time outdoors over the Fourth of July and throughout the summer that increases our chances of mosquito and other bug bites," said Dr. Tom Safranek, a state epidemiologist for the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. "Remember to take simple steps like using bug spray to help protect you and your family."

West Nile Virus is transmitted to people through the bite of a mosquito that picked up the virus by feeding on an infected bird. The Department of Health and Human Services started its West Nile virus surveillance at the beginning of June.

Last week, the first human case of West Nile Virus was reported in Lincoln.

"This is the first human case so far this season and we expect to see more," Safranek said. "West Nike Virus can be a mild illness for some and serious for others. If you haven't been taking steps to protect yourself, it's important to start now."

During last year's summer season there were 142 human cases in Nebraska, including eight deaths.

"The Panhandle actually had significantly higher rates of the virus last year compared to eastern Nebraska. Enough for people to bare paying attention," he said.

Once infected, most people won't have symptoms or only mild flu-like symptoms. Some people will develop a fever with other symptoms like headaches, body aches, vomiting, fatigue and weakness. Less than one percent of people will develop a serious illness like encephalitis or meningitis. People over 50 and those with weakened immune systems are especially vulnerable to the disease and are more likely to experience serious consequences.

Easy steps and precautions a part of the "Fight the Bite" campaign can be made to reduce chances of being bitten by mosquitoes. Dusk and dawn are times when mosquitoes are most active, so by limiting outdoor activities during these times will help prevent bites.

Dressing in light long-sleeved shirts, pants and socks and making sure to wear mosquito repellent containing DEET, picaridin, lemon eucalyptus oil or IR3535 can also help reduce risks. DEET is a chemical used in insect repellents. The amount of DEET in insect repellents varies from product to product, so it's important to read the label because the amount can range from less than 10 percent to more than 30 percent.

Another preventive tip is to drain any standing water around home because water and warmth breed mosquitoes. Healthy children and adults are at a very low risk for infection.

There is no specific treatment for West Nile virus infection or a vaccine. While most people fully recover from the virus, in some severe cases hospitalization may be required.

"West Nile is actually a threat and can be detrimental to people's long-term health," Safranek said. "People need to be aware of this because it really is a preventable disease."

During the summer months, The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services also reminds Nebraskans to avoid ticks due to ehrilichosis, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, tularemia and Lyme disease. While it's a good idea to take preventive measures against tick all year-round, being extra aware from April to September when ticks are most active.

By avoiding wooded and bushy areas with high grass and leaves and walking in the center of trails are ways to avoid direct contact with ticks. Ticks can also be repelled with DEET.

Conducting full body checks especially in households with children. Examining outdoor gear like backpacks as well as pets can help prevent ticks from attaching to a person later. Using a dryer on high heat for an hour can also be used to kill remaining ticks on clothing.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, fine-tipped tweezers should be used to remove an attached tick. After removing the tick, thoroughly clean the bite area and hands with rubbing alcohol, an iodine scrub or soap and water. Dispose of a live tick by submerging it in alcohol, placing it in a sealed container, wrapping it tightly in tape or flushing it down the toilet.