Public health officials have confirmed the first case of West Nile virus of 2023 in Texas. This is a serious concern for all of us, and we want to ensure that you have the information you need to protect yourself and your loved ones.
West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne illness that can cause serious health problems, including fever, headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, and rash. In rare cases, it can lead to more serious illnesses such as encephalitis or meningitis. The best way to protect yourself from West Nile virus is to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself:
Use insect repellent: Use an EPA-registered insect repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or para-menthane-diol.
Wear protective clothing: Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks when you are outdoors, especially during peak mosquito hours (dusk and dawn).
Eliminate standing water: Mosquitoes breed in standing water, so be sure to eliminate any sources of standing water around your home, such as in flower pots, bird baths, and gutters.
In addition to West Nile virus, we also want to remind you that COVID-19 and the flu are still a concern. Please continue to take precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones from these illnesses as well. Here are some steps you can take to stay healthy:
Wash your hands: Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after being in public or blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
Wear a mask: Wear a mask when you are in public
Stay home: Stay home if you are sick or have been exposed to someone who has COVID-19.
Get vaccinated: Get vaccinated against the flu and/or COVID-19
We hope that you find this information helpful. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.