This year a record 1,118 cases of West Nile virus infections have been report from 47 states in people, birds or mosquitoes, with 41 deaths reported to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Transmitted through mosquito bites, 2012 has brought the highest number of transmissions since the disease’s discovery. And just this week Missouri health officials confirmed a 78-year-old man in Laclede County was the state’s first death from West Nile this year. This means fighting mosquitoes on your next float is more important than ever.
While West Nile Virus can be serious, four out of five people never exhibit its symptoms including swollen lymph nodes, nausea, headaches, fever and more. But some persons infected can experience more serious symptoms like high fever, disorientation, stupor and a coma. The best and easiest way to avoid the West Nile Virus is to prevent mosquito bites.
Health officials in St. Louis County, MO aren’t taking any chances, increasing spraying and awareness efforts especially in light of the expected onslaught of rain in Missouri from Hurricane Isaac. More water means more mosquitoes. Whether you are at home or on a float trip families are urged to take steps to get rid of standing water by draining any buckets, toys, wading pools, garbage cans and any other items where water collects.
The good news about Missouri float trips is that most rivers, lakes and streams are populated with fish that eat mosquitoes. But you should still be prepared for moments along the shoreline areas near the water. Here are some tips from the CDC when it comes to fight mosquitoes on your next float trip.
It’s important when you and your family are out doors to use insect repellent that contains an EPA-registered ingredient. Be sure to follow the directions on the product’s packaging to ensure you have maximum protection.
If your family plans to camp overnight on your next float trip, inform your family that mosquitoes are most active at dawn or dusk. During these times of the day it’s best to stay indoors or in your tent or RV. If you have to go outside, be sure you and your family use insect mosquito repellent containing DEET. Don’t use repellents with more than 30 percent DEET on children, and avoid using it on infants younger than 2 months. Everyone should use repellent in addition to wearing long sleeves and pants.
Make sure your tents and popup trailer has good screens on the windows and porch areas to keep mosquitoes out. If you plan to use citronella candles, take extra precaution when using them anywhere near tents as they could pose a fire hazard.
If you see standing water at or near your campsite, you should address the problem immediately since standing water is a mosquito breeding ground. Empty any standing water from barrels, buckets or flower pots. If you bring your family’s pet along, change the water in their pet dish often. Be sure to drain the water out of tire swings at campground play areas as well.
Though one in five people exhibit symptoms of the West Nile Virus, it shouldn’t be taken lightly. By following these tips you and your family can prevent mosquito bites and avoid the West Nile Virus on your next float trip.
