Mosquitoes: More Than an Annoyance—a Disease Vector

According to the CDC, there were 2,122 reported cases of West Nile virus disease in U.S. residents in 2014. The disease is carried by birds and mosquitoes and transmitted to people by mosquitoes. A total of 47 states and the District of Columbia reported West Nile virus infections in people, birds, or mosquitoes in 2014.

Are your outdoor workers taking appropriate precautions to prevent West Nile virus infection?

West Nile Virus

West Nile virus is primarily transmitted by mosquito bites. It is found throughout the United States.

In most cases, people infected with West Nile virus either show no symptoms or have very mild flu-like symptoms, called West Nile fever. These mild cases of West Nile virus normally last only a few days and do not cause any long-term health problems. Severe cases, however, can result in much more serious illness, including inflammation of the brain or the tissues surrounding the brain (encephalitis and meningitis).

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Workers can protect themselves against West Nile virus infection by:

• Using insect repellent. Workers should lightly apply insect repellents that contain DEET or picaridin to exposed skin, avoiding broken skin. They can apply the insecticide permethrin to clothing; clothes should be allowed to dry for 2 hours before wearing. Workers should wash treated skin and clothing when they come indoors.
• Eliminating breeding grounds. Mosquitoes breed in standing water, so workers should eliminate all sources of standing water, including small sources like trash can lids or irrigation control boxes. Items that might collect and hold water, such as wheelbarrows and buckets, should be stored upside down or covered. Other items, such as outdoor planters, should be drilled with drain holes.

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Standing water, like animal drinking troughs, can be kept fresh by aerating it or changing the water frequently.

Another option is to use mosquito dunks, which contain a pesticide that is toxic to mosquito larvae but harmless to animals and fish.

• Knowing when mosquitos are most active. Mosquitoes bite in the early morning and evening so workers should wear protective clothing and repellent if they are outside during these times.

Need more help preventing infectious diseases? Safety.BLR.com transmits useful information every day.