Watching Mosquitos Prevents West Nile

As Printed in the Key West Citizen - 10/16/02

We are all becoming increasingly concerned about West Nile virus. The newspapers and radio let us know on a daily basis that this mosquito-carried disease is affecting people in Florida and spreading into new areas. Those of us who live in Monroe County need to be informed and aware of this disease so we can help combat it and keep it out of our county.

You have no need to be immediately concerned about West Nile virus. At this time there are no cases of it in the Florida Keys.

Wild birds carry this disease. Mosquitos transfer the virus after they bite infected birds and then bite us. It does not infect human beings that handle wild birds, nor does it spread from person to person. Mosquito bites are the only way that West Nile virus is spread.

Initial symptoms of the disease in humans are very similar to those associated with the common flu, plus a feeling of weak muscles and disorientation. The majority of people who become infected with the virus will only have the mild symptoms I have described, if any symptoms at all, However, in some individuals West Nile virus may be severe, causing inflammation of the brain -- encephalitis -- and in very severe cases paralysis, coma, or death. The disease is a greatest threat (serious or fatal) to individuals with compromised immune systems and elderly people.

We at Florida Keys Mosquito Control are working very hard to keep West Nile virus from spreading in the Keys by vigilantly larvaciding mosquitos to prevent their hatching, and spraying the adult mosquitos to keep their numbers diminished and under control. Our aircraft, helicopters and trucks are being sent daily to "hot spots" reported by our ground inspectors, as well as responding to complaints reported by you, the residents of the Keys. We are all working very hard to keep the risk of being exposed as low as possible. Our inspectors will be in your neighborhoods and in the saltwater swamps surrounding our homes on a daily basis. Our staff of entomologists is studying and tracking mosquito migrations and concentrating on any suspicious areas to keep West Nile virus from becoming a threat to this county. Police the area around your home. Use our Mosquito Control Help Line to report mosquito activity in your area. If you see mosquito breeding areas, call us.

You can help us too:

1. Empty water holders such as buckets and old tires.
2. Make sure that your windows and screens are "bug tight."
3. Try to stay indoors at dawn and dusk.
4. When outside in mosquito problem areas, wear appropriate clothing and use mosquito repellent. Be sure to apply repellent according to the directions on the label.

Call our Help Line 1-800-276-7493 and ask questions that you want answered.

Talk to your Mosquito Control Commissioner if your mosquito problems aren't being resolved. We're here to help you.

Working together we will minimize the threat of West Nile virus in our county. We will keep this disease from infecting our community.

Bill Shaw