West Nile virus is spreading early—get expert tips to protect yourself
With West Nile virus detected in multiple states, an infectious disease expert explains the most effective ways to avoid mosquito bites this summer.
Trisha Easto- West Nile virus cases are being reported earlier than usual across several U.S. states this year.
- The virus is primarily spread to humans through the bites of infected mosquitoes.
- Most people infected with West Nile virus show no symptoms, but some can develop serious neurologic illness.
- Experts recommend using EPA-registered insect repellents and eliminating standing water to prevent mosquito bites.
Mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus have already been detected in at least 23 states this year, including California, Georgia, Indiana and New York.
This is the earliest start to the West Nile virus (WNV) season in the United States since 2004, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Typically, the CDC sees about 10 cases reported by the end of June, but this year has already seen 48 reported cases by June 30.
While there is no approved human vaccine or antiviral treatment for West Nile virus, infectious disease experts say there are several ways to reduce your risk of infection. The USA TODAY Shopping team spoke with Dr. Jade Le, Infectious Diseases Service Line Chief at Access TeleCare, about the best ways to prevent mosquito bites and the products that can help protect you and your family.
What is West Nile virus?
West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne virus that can cause fever, and in rare cases, serious neurologic illnesses such as encephalitis or meningitis, according to Dr. Le.
It is the leading cause of mosquito-borne illness in the contiguous United States, USA TODAY reported, infecting more than 2,000 people each year. About 1,300 people develop a severe illness, and more than 130 people die annually in the U.S. from the infection, according to the CDC.
USA TODAY reports that West Nile virus was first identified in 1937 in Uganda, in eastern Africa. It was first detected in the United States in the summer of 1999 in New York. Since that time, more than 51,000 symptomatic cases have been reported in the United States, according to the National Library of Medicine.
How is West Nile virus transmitted?
As USA TODAY reported, West Nile virus is primarily spread through mosquito bites. Mosquitoes – most often Culex species – pick up the virus after feeding on infected birds. They can then transmit it to humans, horses and other mammals when they bite again for a blood meal.
What are the symptoms of West Nile virus?
Common symptoms of West Nile virus can include fever, headache, body aches, fatigue, rash, vomiting or diarrhea.
"Most people infected with West Nile virus never develop symptoms and are asymptomatic," Dr. Le said. "One in five may have fever, and approximately one in 150 may develop neurologic symptoms including encephalitis, meningitis or acute flaccid paralysis, meaning infection of the brain where they may develop headache, confusion, seizures, difficulty walking or even paralysis."
Why are we seeing more cases of West Nile Virus this early in the season?
Mosquitoes are rapidly adapting to a changing climate, with genetic and behavioral shifts allowing them to breed for longer periods and expand their range across the globe, according to a recent UC Berkeley study. Researchers warn that this rapid evolution may raise the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses for the public.
An infectious disease expert shares 5 ways to avoid mosquito bites this summer
There is currently no approved human vaccine or antiviral treatment for West Nile virus, according to the CDC, making mosquito bite prevention especially important.
Dr. Le recommends that if you're going to spend any time outdoors this summer, into early fall, you should follow the 5 D's.
- Dusk/Dawn: Avoid going out without insect repellent when mosquitoes are most active, which is at dusk and dawn.
- Dress: Wear loose-fitting long sleeves and long pants when outdoors.
- DEET: Use insect repellents containing DEET.
- Drain: Eliminate areas of standing water where mosquitoes can breed.
- Doors: Ensure doors are closed tightly and windows are either closed or have screens.
What type of mosquito repellent is best?
Editor's note: The products featured here are not endorsed by any health official. They were selected by the USA TODAY Shopping team using expert guidance, research and editorial expertise.
While mosquito zappers and essential-oil infused bracelets have become incredibly popular among shoppers looking to prevent mosquito bites, Dr. Le says the most effective options are EPA-registered repellents containing DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE), all of which are recommended by the CDC for mosquito bite prevention.
"Ensure you are choosing an EPA-registered repellent and using it correctly," Dr. Le said. "DEET has the longest track-record of efficacy, followed by picaridin and then oil of lemon or eucalyptus, depending on formulation."
EPA-registered, DEET-based mosquito repellent
EPA-registered, DEET-free, Picaridin-based mosquito repellent
EPA-registered, DEET-free, oil of lemon eucalyptus-based mosquito repellent
Note: OLE is not recommended for children under the age of 3
Repellent is one layer of protection, but Dr. Le says preventing mosquitoes from breeding around your home is just as important.
In standing water, mosquito eggs hatch and the larvae develop into adults. Recent years have seen record temperatures and rainfall, which has given mosquitoes plenty of locations to deposit their eggs and a shorter growth period, according to ScienceNews.
If water cannot be drained, like an ornamental pond, Dr. Le says there are other precautions you can take. "BTI mosquito dunks or granules placed in areas of standing water that cannot be drained," Dr. Le said. "Use of outdoor fans, wearing permethrin-treated clothing if you will be spending an extended amount of time outdoors."
BTI mosquito dunks for standing water
Treat clothes, outdoor gear, tents + more with Permethrin-based spray
Contributing: Janet Loehrke, USA TODAY; Irene Wright, USA TODAY
USA TODAY Shopping will be covering all the best deals and drops so be sure to sign up for text alerts, check us out on Flipboard, follow us on TikTok, sign up for our newsletter and follow us on Instagram to stay updated!
Our editors independently choose our recommendations. Some content is produced with paid support from a third party, however our editorial decisions remain independent. If you buy through our links, the USA TODAY Network may earn a commission. Prices and availability may change.