Senate News Update
From Senator Jane Earll
May 5, 2005

Protect Yourself When Outdoors 

With spring finally hitting its stride, it's time to shake cabin fever and get outside.

Spending time in the outdoors means being exposed to mosquitoes and ticks, little bugs that can, in relatively rare instances, cause serious illness. With mosquitoes, the threat is the West Nile virus, while ticks can spread Lyme disease. 

In 2004, 15 Pennsylvanians tested positive for the West Nile virus, including one in Erie County. No cases have been reported so far in 2005, but it's worth taking a minute to consider precautions. That's especially true for older citizens and others with immune systems that leave them at higher risk.

West Nile virus is spread to people and animals by infected mosquitoes. The virus can cause West Nile encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain.  People with mild infections of West Nile virus may experience fever, headache, body aches, skin rash and swollen lymph glands. People with more serious infections may experience high fever, headache, neck stiffness and other symptoms.  While most people fully recover, in severe cases, hospitalization is needed. There is no specific treatment for West Nile virus.

The peak mosquito season is April through October. There are simple precautions you can take to reduce exposure to mosquitoes and the virus:

• Consider wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants and socks when outdoors, particularly when mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk.
• Use insect repellents according to the manufacturer's instructions. An effective repellent will contain DEET. (Repellent is not recommended for children under the age of two months.)
• Eliminate the places where mosquitoes breed, including any puddle that lasts more than four days.
• Eliminate standing water in all types of containers, including tin cans, plastic containers, bird baths or ceramic pots.

For more information about West Nile virus, including current test results for mosquitoes, birds and horses, visit the West Nile virus website at www.westnile.state.pa.us or call the Department of Health at 1-877-PA HEALTH.

Lyme disease is an inflammatory illness spread by ticks, and is more common in eastern Pennsylvania.  Symptoms include rashes, fever and fatigue.  As with West Nile virus, there are few precautions worth keeping in mind.

When heading to wooded areas, use insect repellent and wear light-colored clothing that covers as much skin as possible. Walk in the center of trails to avoid overhanging brush, and check yourself, family members and pets for ticks after leaving wooded areas.  You can read more about Lyme disease at www.health.state.pa.us.

After a long, cold winter, the mere existence of the West Nile virus and Lyme disease is no reason to stay indoors. Take a few simple precautions, go outside, and enjoy the fresh air.

As always, if you have any questions on this or any other state government matter, please do not hesitate to contact my office directly at (814) 453-2515.