Earlier this week, CDC released the final 2012 national
surveillance data for West Nile virus activity. In 2012, 5,674 human West
Nile virus infections were reported to CDC, 286 of which resulted in death. The
state with the highest number of cases for the year was Texas, where 1,868
cases were reported. California, Louisiana, Illinois, Mississippi, South Dakota
and Michigan each reported more than 200 cases in 2012.
In preparation for summer’s arrival and the return of West
Nile virus, CDC offers the following tips to protect yourself and your family
from the virus:
- Use Insect Repellent. CDC recommends EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
- Wear Long Clothes When Exposed to Mosquitos. Spraying clothing with insect repellent can also be beneficial.
- Avoid Going Outside During Peak Mosquito Hours. Mosquitos are most active between dusk and dawn.
- Drain Standing Water Around Your Home. Mosquitos lay eggs in stagnant water, so eliminating still water habitats around your home can prevent mosquitos from breeding nearby.
- Install Screens. If your windows and doors are already equipped with screens, be sure to inspect them for tears that are in need of repair.
- Report Dead Birds to Local Authorities. Over 130 species of birds are known to have been infected with West Nile virus, and dead birds in your neighborhood are a sign that the virus may be prevalent in your area.