Protection from West Nile Virus begins with knowledge.
What is it?
West Nile Virus (WNV) is a disease carried and transmitted by mosquitoes. Traces of WNV have been found in Massachusetts.
What are the symptoms?
Mild symptoms include headaches, body aches, skin rash, and swollen lymph nodes.
More severe cases may include convulsions, coma, paralysis, and death.
Those over 50 may be subject to a higher risk factor.
How can I protect my family?
Be mindful of the times you go outside. The hours between dusk and dawn tend to be most dangerous. When you go outside, make sure to do the following: Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, use bug repellent properly, and cover baby carriages with bug netting. If you go camping, make sure to avoid water and equip your tent with bug netting.
A press release will be going out to further explain the disease and how to protect yourself from obtaining it.
For more information, visit the Mass. Health Dept. page or our City’s Health Dept. page.
Helpful and informative. Thanks for this blog at a time when we need to stay protected and healthy in the wake of increasing risks due to adverse climatic changes.