HOW IT SPREADS:
- West Nile virus is spread by mosquito bites and has been found in birds and horses, but health officials do not believe it can be spread by other animals or humans.
- Most people experience no symptoms, but some become ill three to 15 days after they are bitten by an infected mosquito. Symptoms range from fever, headache and body aches to convulsions and potentially fatal swelling of the brain.
- Avoid the outdoors at times mosquitoes are likely to bite, generally just before and after sunset and again before dawn.
- Wear long-sleeved tops and long pants made of tightly woven, light-colored materials.
- Use repellent that contains DEET, although not on infants.
- Eliminate mosquito breeding sites, such as buckets or old tires where water can collect.
For the city's press releases, spraying schedule, prevention tips, and what to do with dead birds visit www.cityofchicago.org/.
From the Illinois Dept. of Health: idph.state.il.us/envhealth
- What is West Nile virus?
- Information about mosquitoes
- Mosquitoes and Encephalitis
- Arboviral encephalitis
- DEET and insect repellents
- Transmission cycle
- Neato Mosquito: An Elementary Curriculum Guide
- Questions and answers about mosquito prevention for people, property and pets
- Questions and answers about spraying for adult mosquitoes
- Other Links
- News Releases
