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Our yards loved the August rains and so did the mosquitoes. Mosquito traps in nine Sedgwick County locations showed mosquito counts jumping from almost none to 10,000 in August. Some carry West Nile virus and one Sedgwick County adult has a confirmed case.

 

Most people with West Nile virus infection do not have any symptoms. About 20 percent of people infected experience mild symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, nausea and vomiting. Less than 1 percent of people develop severe illness that may require hospitalization. Severe symptoms include neck stiffness, disorientation, tremors, muscle weakness, numbness, paralysis and even coma or death. If you develop severe symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

 

 

Mosquito populations multiply in standing waterwhere mosquitoes breed. Rain water and sprinklers can create pools of standing water in places like bird baths, gutters, empty pots, pet dishes, on top of tarps and in tire swings. If these items don’t drain or the water doesn’t evaporate quickly, empty the water or replace it every couple of days.

 

Cover your skin with clothing when you are outdoors, especially during the dawn and dusk hours; wear long sleeves, pants, socks and shoes that cover your feet.

 

Use insect repellent that contains DEET. Follow label instructions and avoid over-application.