How to protect yourself from West Niles virus

Tribune Staff Report

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By Beth Boehne

Story Created: Jun 5, 2008 at 10:22 AM EST

Story Updated: Jun 5, 2008 at 10:41 AM EST

Indiana health officials are urging Hoosiers to take steps to protect themselves from West Nile virus, which is transmitted by mosquitoes.

Last year, there were 24 human cases of West Nile virus in Indiana. The Marion County Health Department recently reported two mosquito groups tested positive for West Nile virus.

Here are tips from the Indiana State Department of Health to help prevent spread of the disease:

Dispose of old tires, tin cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots or other unused containers that can hold water;

Repair failed septic systems;

Drill holes in the bottom of recycling containers left outdoors;

Keep grass cut short and shrubbery trimmed;

Clean clogged roof gutters, particularly if leaves tend to clog the down spouts; and

Aerate ornamental pools, or stock them with predatory fish.

If possible, people should avoid being outdoors during prime mosquito-biting times, dusk to dawn. When outdoors, they should apply insect repellent containing DEET, Picardin, or oil of lemon or eucalyptus to clothes and exposed skin; and wear long-sleeved shirts and pants.

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