How to Avoid West Nile Virus

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By Angelina Berghela
eHow Contributing Writer

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Avoid West Nile Virus

The West Nile Virus is carried by mosquitoes and can be passed on to humans and animals by a simple mosquito bite. While West Nile epidemics have been recorded in South Africa, France, Israel and Romania, you are at risk of being infected anywhere that mosquitoes habitat. Follow the steps below to avoid contracting the West Nile Virus.

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Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Insect repellent
Insect netting
Long clothing

How to Avoid West Nile Virus

Step 1

Apply insect repellent to exposed skin when spending extended periods of time in the outdoors. You can purchase repellents that provide protection for the length of time you will be spending outside.
Step 2

Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when possible
Step 3

Spray clothing with an EPA-registered repellent. This will protect you from getting a mosquito bite through your clothing.
Step 4

Inspect window and door screens to make sure that mosquitoes cant get through. Also use mosquito nets over infant carriers when outside.
Step 5

Avoid spending time outdoors during peak mosquito hours. Peak mosquito hours are dusk, dawn, late afternoon and early evening.
Step 6

Reduce the amount of standing water around your house or apartment. Mosquitoes often breed and lay their eggs in moist and wet areas. Always drain flower pots, garbage cans, rain gutters and water dishes regularly to reduce their options.