Potential for additional human West Nile Virus infections Published Sept. 23, 2011 By Airman 1st Class Stephen Hall and Tech. Sgt. Cara McQueen 90th Medical Operations Squadron Public Health F. E. WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, Wyo. -- The West Nile Virus is a mosquito-borne disease that can cause a potentially serious illness in humans. Mosquitoes spread this virus after they feed on infected birds and then bite people, other birds, or animals. Although the mosquito season is April through October, Wyoming typically sees a peak in the human cases in late summer or early fall. According to the Wyoming Department of Health, Wyoming has had only two reported human WNV cases this year. One of the two cases occurred in mid July and the other presented ill in mid September. This early fall case serves as a reminder that mosquitoes are still active and preventive measures are required to avoid infection. How can one get it? The principal route of human WNV infection is through the bite of an infected mosquito. What are the symptoms? Most people never develop symptoms; but those who do become ill may experience mild or sever symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, skin rash and swollen lymph glands. People with more severe infections, may experience high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors and convulsions. If one has any of these symptoms, he or she should contact a healthcare provider at Air Force Global Strike Command's 90th Medical Group. How to protect oneself? One can minimize the probability of infection by following simple steps recommended by the Wyoming Department of Health: 1. DAWN & DUSK- When possible, avoid spending time outside during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active. Mosquitoes will bite if one enters an area where they are resting, such as high grass or heavy underbrush. 2. DRESS- Wear shoes, socks, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt when outdoors for long periods of time or when mosquitoes are most active. Clothing should be light colored and made of tightly woven materials to keep mosquitoes away from the skin. 3. DRAIN- Reduce standing water in or near one's property because mosquitoes like to lay eggs in areas with standing water. 4. DEET - For additional protection from mosquitoes, use an insect repellent containing DEET. It is important to follow the product guidelines when using insect repellant especially on children. DEET should not be used on infants less than two months old. For more information on insect repellant use and safety, visit http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/qa/insect_repellent.htm. More information about WNV is available online at www.badskeeter.org or by calling the public health office at 773-3040.