W Nile Virus

Some of us heard of this Virus that can kill via mosquito many years ago. But we weren't as concerned then because it was in Africa and Europe. Wasen't anything we could do.

Then, since 1999, news reports speak of many who have been sickened or died here in most USA States. We have read of hundreds being sick and taking months to get better. We heard of many who had brain swelling that caused their death.

From one infected mosquito bite.

So how can we fight back. How do we kill every nearby mosquito..? We can't. But we can remove the source. Remove the standing water in our yards, bird feeders, rain gutters, where they breed. Even an old tire could be full of mosquito-breeding stagnant water.

I still have my bird feeders but the water gets changed every couple days. Most mosquitoes need at least a week or two for breeding.

Another thing we can do is avoid being outdoors at dusk or dawn. Thats when they are the worse. And they are attracted to dark clothing so wearing light colors (with long sleeves)would help. And they seem to love perfume strongly scented.

And most experts advise us to use Bug Spray......the kind with DEET.

Most areas have had a lot of warm and wet weather this year so we expect even more of these blood-suckers. Beware of dead birds. If this W Nile Virus killed that bird and then gets bitten by a mosquito that also bites us.......we have reason to be concerned.

It may not bother some people but even one bite could lead to rash, fever, stiff neck. Worst case would be brain swelling, coma and paralysis. Don't put off talking with a doctor if you experience any of this.