This is the year to protect yourself from the WEST NILE VIRUS.

Lately I find swarms of mosquitos right outside my front door. Any time spent outside results in at least a few bites. That has me thinking  about the West Nile Virus.

Some West Nile statistics to consider:

• Although it is early in the mosquito season, there are already 1850 cases in the U.S.
• The total for the entire year of 2011 was 712.
• About 20% of those infected will develop flu-like symptoms which resolve in several days or weeks. 
• Approximately one in 150 will develop the serious neuro-invasive form of the disease. It affects the brain and nervous system. Crippling long-term effects and even death can occur.

Those most vulnerable to the severe form:

• Young children and babies, people over 50 and the immunocompromised.

Click here to for more information from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control- West Nile.

P.S. Before you accuse me of joining the doom and gloom crowd, be aware that protecting yourself is a simple matter. (I wouldn’t give you a problem without a solution!)

Read my post from Monday, September 14 on insect repellants.

As always, I welcome your questions and comments. Have you had any experience or known anyone with West Nile? Please share!

Wishing you peace and good health!

Diane

Diane@HueyHealth.com