West Nile Discovered in HV: 5 Ways to Protect Yourself Now

This week in the Hudson Valley a mosquito tested positive for the West Nile Virus. There are some quick and easy things you can do now to protect yourself.

According to the Journal News, the infected mosquito was found as part of a routine check in Rockland County. In a sample of insects sent to the state for testing, one from Clarkstown was found to be carrying West Nile.

The West Nile Virus is transmitted between birds and insects and can be transmitted to humans when bitten by an infected mosquito. Last year one Dutchess County resident and two Westchester residents were diagnosed with West Nile Virus. While most who contract the virus will only experience flu-like symptoms, some cases of the virus can cause a dangerous brain infection that have resulted in death.

Last year there were 26 cases of West Nile reported in New York State, with most of them occurring in August and September. Experts say it's important to act now to prevent infection later in the summer when cases traditionally spike.

The CDC suggests following these prevention measures to protect you and your family:

1. Use insect repellent when going outdoors
Products containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, and some oil of lemon eucalyptus and para-menthane-diol products are most effecting, says the CDC.

2. Wear long sleeves and pants when the weather permits
The CDC warns that mosquitoes may bite through thin clothing, so spraying your clothes with repellent containing permethrin or another EPA-registered repellent will give extra protection. Permethrin should not be sprayed on your skin.

3. Avoid outdoor activity during peak mosquito hours
Mosquitos are most active from dusk to dawn. If you're in an area that is heavily populated with mosquitos, you may want to try to limit your outdoor activity during those times.

4. Mosquito-proof your home
Repairing screens and using air conditioning when possible will reduce the number of insects in your home. Make sure family members know to close the door after themselves. Also, when entering and exiting the home at night, turn off lights inside so insects aren't attracted indoors.

5. Report dead birds to authorities
Dead birds in the area may be a sign that West Nile is being circulated between birds mosquitos. Contact the New York State Department of Health to report dead birds in your area.

We want to know: Are you concerned about West Nile and other mosquito-borne illnesses? What are you doing to protect you and your family?