West Nile Virus and Children

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IMPORTANT FACTS ABOUT WEST NILE VIRUS

• West Nile is a mosquito-borne virus that can cause encephalitis [inflammation of the brain] or meningitis [inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord].
   
• It is spread to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected by biting a bird that carries the virus.
   
• You or your child cannot get West Nile virus from a person who has the disease. West Nile virus is not spread by person-to-person contact such as touching, kissing, or caring for someone who is infected.
   
• Children, including infants, are not at greater risk than other individuals for becoming infected with West Nile virus. But children will need an adult's help in taking precautions against mosquito bites. Parents and care givers should take precautions to help protect children from getting bitten.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF MY CHILD IS BITTEN BY A MOSQUITO?

• First, remember very few [less than 1%] mosquitoes are infected with the West Nile virus. Most people, including children, who are bitten by mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus will experience no symptoms, or very mild illnesses.
   
• If illness were to occur, it would occur within 3 to 15 days of being bitten by an infected mosquito.
   
• Symptoms may include fever, headache, body aches, a mild rash or swollen lymph glands. West Nile virus can lead to encephalitis causing permanent neurological damage, and can be fatal. Symptoms of encephalitis [inflammation of the brain] include the rapid onset of severe headache, high fever, stiff neck, confusion, loss of consciousness [coma], or muscle weakness, and may be fatal.
   
• Seek medical attention if your child develops symptoms such as high fever with confusion; muscle weakness; severe headaches; or a stiff neck.

Protecting Children From Mosquito Bites

While anyone can become infected with the virus if bitten by an infected mosquito, children need an adult's help in taking precautions against mosquito bites.

• From April to October, if children are outside from dusk to dawn, when mosquitoes are most active, or during the day in an area where there are weeds, tall grass, or bushes, dress your child in protective clothing such as long pants, loose-fitting long-sleeved shirts, and socks and consider the use of an insect repellant containing DEET, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
   
• Eliminate mosquito breeding and harborage areas including discarded tires, bird baths, clogged gutters, wading pools, toys left outside, and virtually any other water source left stagnant for at least four days.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONTACT THE WAYNE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH: 734-727-7000

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