West Nile Virus Still A Threat In South Dakota

August 31, 2007 -- PIERRE, S.D. – Summer may be winding down but West Nile virus is still a threat. South Dakotans who plan to head outdoors for the Labor Day weekend and upcoming hunting seasons need to take precautions, says a state health official.
“With schools back in session it’s tempting to think summer is over and there’s no need to worry about mosquitoes anymore,” said Dr. Lon Kightlinger, State Epidemiologist for the Department of Health. “However, cases are still being reported and we know that transmission is still taking place so now is not the time for people to stop protecting themselves. Until we have our first hard freeze, West Nile will remain a threat.”

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* Don’t give mosquitoes a place to breed. Get rid of old tires and other containers that accumulate water, regularly change water in bird baths and outside pet dishes, and drain water from flower pots and other garden containers.
* Limit your time outdoors at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
* Use mosquito repellent containing DEET, Picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Limit exposure by wearing appropriate clothes.

“Local control programs across the state are working hard to reduce mosquito numbers in our communities. It’s important that each one of us also take personal responsibility to protect ourselves and our loved ones from mosquito bites,” said Kightlinger.
Since 2002, South Dakota has reported more than 1,500 cases of WNV, including 23 deaths. So far in 2007, there have been 107 cases of human West Nile and three deaths.

To learn more about WNV prevention, visit the website at http://WestNile.sd.gov.

Source: South Dakota Dept. of Health