June 5, 2009

DHHS Reminds People to Take Precautions against Mosquitoes and Ticks

(Continued from Front Page)

For individuals who are bitten by a mosquito carrying West Nile virus, the risk of contracting the infection is low and in the overwhelming majority of cases, there are no symptoms or just mild, flu-like symptoms. At times, West Nile virus can cause meningitis and can be a serious threat to seniors, young children and those with compromised immune systems. If illness does occur, it typically happens within 3 to 15 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. 

The symptoms of Lyme disease include chills, fever, headache, fatigue, stiff neck, swollen glands, muscle or joint pain, and sometimes a large circular, or bullseye, rash. Symptoms usually begin within a month of expsoure but can range from 3 to 32 days.

DHHS is strongly urging residents of New Hampshire to take steps to prevent these illnesses. When in tick-infested areas (such as woods and grassy areas): 

• Wear light-colored clothing to make ticks easy to see

• Tuck pants into socks and shirts into pants

• Consider using an insect repellent. Products containing >20% DEET have been shown to be effective in repelling ticks. 

• Clothes may be treated with Permethrin. Always follow manufacturer’s instructions when applying repellents

• Check after every two or three hours of outdoor activity for ticks on clothing and skin

• A thorough check of body surfaces for attached ticks should be done at the end of the day

• Reduce the number of ticks around your home by keeping grass short, removing leaf litter, and creating a wood chips or gravel barrier where your lawn meets the woods.

• If a tick is attached to your skin for less than 24 hours, your chance of getting Lyme disease is extremely small. But just to be safe, monitor your health closely after a tick bite and be alert for any signs and symptoms of illness.

To prevent EEE and WNV from mosquito bites:

• If possible, stay inside between dusk and dark, when mosquitoes are most active.

• When outside between dusk and dark, wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts.

• Use an insect repellent with DEET according to manufacturer’s directions when outside.

• Make sure windows have screens on them without holes.

• Eliminate standing water where mosquitoes can breed from your property, such as old tires, flower pots, and pool covers.

For more information about WNV, EEE, or Lyme disease, visit the DHHS website at www.dhhs.nh.gov or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at www.cdc.gov or call the New Hampshire Communicable Disease Control and Surveillance Section at 603-271-4496.