CDC Reports 41 Cases of West Nile Virus

Sept. 19, 2011 - PRLog -- The CDC is now reporting 41 confirmed cases of the West Nile virus.  Residents in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Jersey, North Dakota, South Dakota, Texas, Virginia, and Wyoming have been diagnosed with the West Nile virus.  Many cases go unreported due to mild symptoms. Homeowners are encouraged to take the necessary precautions to reduce the likelihood of becoming infected by the virus.

Homeowners should pay particular attention to their properties, removing any standing water at their homes.  Mosquitoes only require a small amount of water for breeding purposes.  Emptying buckets, birth baths and other containers that store water is recommended.  Additionally, homeowners should clear their rainwater collector systems and gutters of any debris.  Gutters can create an environment in which as many as millions of mosquitoes can breed and reproduce in a year.

Potential breeding grounds for mosquitoes should be removed from the home.  Rainwater systems and gutters should be cleaned at least once per year.  In areas prone to tropical storms and hurricanes, frequent gutter cleaning may be required.  

Although only a few deaths from complications caused by the virus have been reported, homeowners are still advised to take steps to safeguard their properties against mosquito infestation.  Clearing the property of standing water and clogged rainwater systems can make a difference.

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