Deal with West Nile virus at once
Cleopatra may not have had to contend with West Nile virus as she floated on her royal barge, but North Americans do.
For 13 years, this infection has been an ever-increasing problem: 2012 is one for the record books in Canada and the U.S. as WNV caused more than 44 deaths before September.
What is it? WNV comes from being bitten by a mosquito that has bitten an infected bird. Almost 80 per cent of the time, it causes no symptoms; 20 per cent of people with WNV have a mild, flu-like reaction, swollen lymph glands or a rash.
But for one out of 150 people, the result is high fever, headache, neck stiffness, coma, tremors, convulsions, vision loss, numbness and paralysis and brain and nerve damage that may be permanent. The elderly and those with a chronic disease or a weak immune system are most vulnerable.
To protect yourself, put screens on windows and doors and eliminate standing water (in kiddie pools, flowerpots, clogged gutters). Wear long sleeves and pants, especially at dawn and dusk, and use insect repel- lant on clothing and exposed skin. Try oil of lemon eucalyptus for kids 3 and older, or citronella; 30 per cent DEET is the most effective repellant. It’s safe for adults and kids over 2 months. Use mosquito netting on infant carriers and strollers.
If you do get it, there is no cure for WNV, but quick treatment for symptoms minimizes risk of long-term complications.
Ask health questions at doctoroz.com. Drs. Oz and Roizen are authors of YOU: Stress Less. Order it at StarStore.ca. For more information, go to www.realage.com.