Protecting Yourself From West Nile Virus (WNV)

West Nile Virus

West Nile virus (WNV) is the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the continental United States.  It is most commonly spread to people by the bite of an infected mosquito. Cases of WNV occur during mosquito season, which starts in the summer and continues through fall. There are no vaccines to prevent or medications to treat WNV in people. Fortunately, most people infected with WNV do not feel sick. About 1 in 5 people who are infected develop a fever and other symptoms. About 1 out of 150 infected people develop a serious, sometimes fatal, illness.

Most people infected with West Nile virus experience no symptoms. Those who develop symptoms will commonly report fever, headache, body/joint aches or rash. People who develop severe illness may experience stiff neck, altered mental status, paralysis, coma and possibly death. People over 60 or those who have underlying health issues are at greater risk for developing West Nile neuroinvasive disease. In 2021, there were 30 North Dakota residents with WNV disease. Of those, 14 were hospitalized and one person died.                            

The NDDoH recommends residents take these precautions to avoid mosquito bites:

• Use insect repellent registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that contains ingredients such as DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, PMD, 2-undecanone, and permethrin (clothing only). Always follow the directions on the manufacturer’s label for safe and effective use. Apply sunscreen prior to applying repellent.
• Wear protective clothing outdoors such as long-sleeved shirts, long pants and socks.
• Limit outdoor activities between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes that can carry WNV are most likely to bite.
• Eliminate stagnant water in containers around homes where mosquitoes can lay their eggs (e.g. gutters, buckets, flower pots, old tires, wading pools and birdbaths).
• Install or repair screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out of your residence.
• Maintain a well-trimmed yard and landscape around your home.

Insect Repellent Use and Safety