health

No vaccine is available for WNF, so the best way to prevent the spread of the
virus is to prevent mosquito bites. To do so, experts recommend that people
avoid being outside at times when mosquitoes are most active (dawn, dusk,
and early evening), that they wear long sleeves and long pants, and that they
use insect repellent when outside. When using repellent, everyone, especially
children, should carefully follow the instructions on the package.
In the United States, health officials have often traced WNV to areas
where dead birds have been found. By tracking the disease and looking
for patterns of infection, public health officials are better able to prevent
future outbreaks. Experts advise people to contact the local or state
health department if a dead bird is found in an area where WNV has been
reported; a representative will collect the bird for testing.