5 Tips To Avoid Mosquito Diseases

The peak season of La Crosse and West Nile is August and September. They are forms of encephalitis, a disease caused by mosquitoes. They are endemic in the US and the incidents have been increasing.

Symptoms include high fever, headache, lethargy, confusion and stiff neck. They normally occur within 2 to 10 days after being bitten by a disease-carrying mosquito. The most serious symptom of this disease is the swelling of the brain. It could possibly result to severe damage of the central nervous system.

So, be alert and follow these tips from Today’s Wellness Headlines to prevent you and your family from acquiring these mosquito-borne diseases.

1. Keep no artificial man-made habitat such as tires, containers, boats, children’s wading pools and bird baths with standing water around in your environment. Dump the water. Keep containers inside. Ensure roof rain gutters drain properly. Water can accumulate on tarps. Make sure there is no standing water in your yard. If you have tree holes, fill them with cement to prevent water from building up.
2. Use mosquito repellents . Use especially in late afternoon and early evening when mosquitoes are active.
3. Do not use colognes or after-shave lotions, which can attract mosquitoes. If walking through a woodland area, wear shirts with long sleeves and pants, also good protection against tick bites.
4. Mosquito-proof your home. Fix window screens in disrepair. Mosquitoes are attracted to lights and heat in the home.
5. Report clogged storm sewers and ditches holding water. Quiet, long-term ponded areas with 1 1/2 inches or less of water are perfect breeding places for mosquitoes that carry encephalitis and West Nile. You may approach your local health department.

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