DHR urges older adults to protect themselves from mosquito bites

ATLANTA (GA) - Of the 20 confirmed cases of West Nile Virus (WNV) in Georgia this year, 15 have been over age 50, according to state health officials.

An 80-year-old Clayton County resident has died from complications associated with the West Nile Virus this month, according to the Clayton County Board of Health. Since adults aged 50 and older are more at risk of developing severe illnesses from mosquitoborne viruses such as Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) and WNV, the Georgia Department of Human Resources, Division of Aging Services (DAS), and Division of Public Health (DPH) are giving tips to help Georgians protect themselves from mosquito bites this fall.

"West Nile Virus can lead to serious illness and be fa- tal in individuals, especially older adults, who do not take precautions to safeguard their health," said Dr. Susan Lance, epidemiologist with the Division of Public Health. "One human case is one too many for us, and we want people to be aware of this virus and how they can protect themselves."

"We want our older population and at-risk adults to take preventative measures to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes, so they can live longer, safely and well," said Maria Greene, director of the Division of Aging Services.

In Georgia, mosquitoes are more active in early fall and late spring. The most common mosquito-born viruses in Georgia are the Eastern Equine Encephalitis, West Nile and LaCrosse viruses. There is no vaccine and no treatment to protect people from WNV infection, but there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of infection.

Here are some steps to help prevent WNV:

Avoid outdoor activity between dawn and dusk because these are the times of day that mosquitoes are most active. Dress appropriately when outdoors for long periods of time or when mosquitoes are most active.

Use insect repellent with an EPA-approved active ingredient such as DEET, Picaridin, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus. Always follow the directions on the package for safest and most effective use.

Areas with standing water are locations where mosquitoes will lay eggs, so get rid of or treat standing water with larvicides. Dump out containers such as recycling bins, empty flower pots, and other containers that may collect water. Change water in birdbaths or small wading pools at least once a week.

For more information about West Nile Virus, contact your local health department or visit http://health.state.ga.us/epi/ vbd/mosquito.asp.