Summer 2008

West Nile Virus and You
Avoid Mosquito Bites

Mosquitos are the primary vector for West Nile Virus and other dreadful diseases, so keep them from reproducing on your property and protect yourself and your families from being bitten. 

Eliminate all sources of standing water on your property so they don’t have a place to develop. Avoid spending time outside when mosquitoes are most active, especially at dawn and dusk.

If you go outside use an insect repellent with DEET, Picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus.

Fix or replace missing or torn door and window screens to keep mosquitoes out of your home.

If you are bitten and later develop fever, headache, body aches, swollen lymph notes or even a rash, contact your doctor right away.  West Nile can be fatal, especially for old people or those who are immune-compromised.

Finally, if you find a dead bird, particularly a crow, jay, magpie, raven, sparrow, finch, or raptor, please report it online  at www.westnile.ca.gov, or call 1-877-WNV-BIRD.  (Same contacts for more information as well.)  Do not handle the bird; use a shovel, gloves, or inverted plastic bag to put bird into a plastic bag.  If it is not  picked up within 24 hours, dispose of it in the trash.

Signifibits...

• Dog Health-eczema, hair loss, lethargy, infection – all cured by a change in diet.  See VWC website for the recipe from VWC Member Linda Moore.
• Goodwill accepts rags and shoes – don’t throw clean, dry old clothing and old shoes in the trash; take ‘em to Goodwill and they will be recycled.

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