Learn More About What is West Nile How Does WNV West Nile Virus Virus? Spread? It’s one of a group of viruses spread Generally, WNV is spread by the bite of Talk to your doctor about any questions or by bites. an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes are concerns you may have. West Nile Virus (WNV) is a flavivirus WNV carriers that become infected Dallas County commonly found in Africa, West Asia, when they feed on infected birds. In- Health & Human Services and the Middle East. It is closely related fected mosquitoes can then spread Environmental Health Division WNV to humans and other 2377 N. Stemmons Freeway to St. Louis encephalitis virus found in Dallas, Texas 75207 the United States. The virus can infect when they bite. (214) 819-2115 humans, birds, mosquitoes, horses and www.dallascounty.org Culex quinquefasciatus mosquito some other mammals. WNV is not spread through casual contact such as touching West Nile Virus can cause mild or kissing a per son with the to severe illness. Most people virus. who get infected do not get sick. Some get a mild, flu-like illness. In In a very small number of cases, rarer cases, the virus can affect the WNV has spread through blood brain and spinal cord and cause transfusions, organ transplants, encephalitis, and can be fatal. breastfeeding and even during pregnancy from mother to Aedes albopictus mosquito West Nile virus is cause for baby. staying informed - not for panic. Texas Department of State Health Services Dallas County Learning about the virus and ways to People typically develop symptoms between 1100 West 48th Street prevent is key. Steps you take Austin, Texas 78756 Health & Human Services 3 and 14 days after they are bitten by an (512)458-7255 can help protect you from other mos- infected mosquito. http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/ quito-borne diseases, too. Environmental Health Division National Resources: 2377 N. Stemmons Freeway Dallas, Texas 75207 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (214) 819-2115 (888) 246-2675 (English) (888) 246-2857 (Spanish) (866) 874-2646 (TTY) Zachary Thompson, Director www.cdc.gov/westnile What are the How is WNV What is Dallas What Can I Do? Symptoms of Treated? County Doing? Mosquito Proof Dallas County uses an Integrated Mosquito WNV? There is no specific Management program to control the mosquito treatment for WNV population. IMM Remember the Best Offense WNV can affect the central infection. In mild uses various tech- nervous system. The sever- cases, people experience niques that include is a Good D-fense

ity of symptoms can vary symptoms such as fever the following tools: from person-to-person. and aches that go away rain on their own. In more D • No Symptoms in Surveillance Most People. Approxi- severe cases, people may The collection of • Get rid of ALL mately 80% of people who are infected with need to go to the hospital where they can receive mosquitoes to standing water. determine the supportive treatment including intravenous fluids, help • Empty, remove, West Nile Virus will not show any symptoms and location, species, with breathing and nursing care. will not know they have it. quantity and virus cover or turn potential. upside down any • Mild Infection in Some People. Up to 20% containers that will hold standing water (bottles, of the people who become infected will display Source Reduction cans, tires, buckets, flower pots, etc.) mild flu-like symptoms, including headache and Investigate and remove water sources that support • Change water in pet dishes, wading pools and What Should I do if mosquito breeding habitats. body aches, nausea, vomiting, as well as swollen birdbaths several times a week.

lymph glands, or a skin rash on the chest, stom- I think I have WNV? Larvicide • Cover trash containers so they will not collect ach and back. Symptoms typically last a few The use of mosquito fish and EPA-approved prod- water. days. This is known as . If you think you may have ucts to kill mosquito in standing water.

• Serious Infection in a Few People. About West Nile Virus, see your Adulticide Dress one in 150 people infected with WNV will doctor or health care The spraying of EPA-approved products from trucks develop severe illness, such as West Nile provider as soon as possible. to reduce mosquito populations. • Wear long, loose and

Encephalitis, West Nile Meningitis or They will be able to run the light-colored clothing Public Awareness to avoid mosquito West Nile Meningoencephalitis. The symp- tests needed to diagnose and Informing the public by press releases, public bites when outside. toms can include headache as well as neck stiff- treat your condition. information campaigns, websites, flyers and presen- ness, confusion and high fever. These symptoms tations. Mild WNV illness often may last several weeks or even months. The eet improves on its own. If you Personal Protection D neurological effects may be permanent. Changing personal habits to reduce mosquito bites. develop symptoms of the • Use repellent This means YOU and how you can protect yourself, • WNV is known to cause death in rare cir- more severe form of WNV illness, such as unusually your family and community. products with “DEET” or other FDA approved cumstances. severe headaches or confusion, seek medical attention repellents and follow product instructions. immediately. to S.S.L.A.P.P. back mosquitoes!