While there are many mosquito-borne illnesses, including Zika, Dengue, and yellow fever, the one you really need to worry about is West Nile. West Nile is the most common mosquito borne illness in the US, typically affecting thousands of people across the country each year. In fact, this illness has been responsible for 1,700 deaths since 1999.
Here at LeafFilter, we want to make sure homeowners are taking the proper precautions to keep their family safe and healthy. Here’s what you need to know about West Nile Virus, including some tips for avoiding this disease.
Signs of West Nile Virus
It’s important to keep a lookout for the early signs of West Nile to properly diagnose the illness. Early signs of West Nile include a flat red rash with small bumps. This rash will usually appear just two to 14 days after a bite, accompanied by fatigue, headache, back pain, severe eye pain, muscle pain, and bone and joint pain. Serious side effects usually only occur in people 65 and older and those with other health problems, such as diabetes and heart disease.
In some rare cases, individuals can experience inflammation of the brain or surrounding tissue. In this case, the virus can be fatal. If you have any of these symptoms, take some ibuprofen and speak with a health care professional as soon as possible.
Avoiding West Nile Virus
Unfortunately, there is no vaccine against the disease, and since West Nile is caused by the virus, not bacteria, antibiotics don’t help treat it, either. For these reasons, it’s important to take the proper precautions to avoid the virus.
Mosquito repellants can help protect you and your family against West Nile. Consumer Reports released exclusive test results and ratings of mosquito repellents — including those that will protect you best. Using insect repellents when you go outdoors is always a good idea. You can also wear long sleeves and pants from dusk through dawn when many mosquitoes are most active.
It’s also important to properly divert water away from your home. Standing water and clogged gutters are a breeding ground for mosquitos. When water diverts over your gutters and pools around your home, it can attract mosquitos, increasing your chances of contracting West Nile. You’ll also want to empty standing water from containers like flowerpots, pool covers, birdbaths, and buckets, in addition to paying attention to your gutters.
How LeafFilter Can Protect You
LeafFilter Gutter Protection installs on top of your existing gutters, ensuring that water is properly diverted away from your home. With clean and clear gutters, water will travel through your downspouts and away from your home, so standing water won’t be an issue.
When installed, a LeafFilter technician will properly clean and realign your gutters, ensuring that water can effectively travel through your gutters and downspouts. You won’t have to worry about any mosquitos making your gutters their home. See how LeafFilter works and request a free, no obligation estimate today.
