[SoDu How-To] Protect Yourself from West Nile Virus This Summer

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Durham County just confirmed its first human case of West Nile virus since 2022. While the risk remains low for most people, this serves as a timely reminder: mosquito-borne illnesses are active in North Carolina – including right here in South Durham.

With warm, wet weather and peak mosquito season in full swing, here’s what you need to know – and do – to protect your family, neighbors, and pets.

1. Know the Risk: What is West Nile Virus?

West Nile virus is carried by wild birds and transmitted to humans through mosquito bites. You can’t get it from another person. Most people don’t get sick, but for some, the virus can cause serious neurological illness.

• 1 in 5 infected people develop symptoms like fever, headache, or joint pain.
• 1 in 150 may develop severe symptoms such as neck stiffness, disorientation, seizures, or even paralysis.
• Older adults and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of severe disease.

2. Prevent Bites: Your Defense Starts at Dusk

The mosquitoes that carry West Nile virus are most active between dusk and dawn. Here’s how to stay protected:

• Use EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
• Wear long sleeves and pants when outside, especially in the evenings.
• Consider permethrin-treated clothing or gear if spending extended time outdoors.
• Check for bites after being outside, especially for kids and older adults.

3. Stop Mosquitoes at the Source: Eliminate Standing Water

Mosquitoes lay eggs in water. Just a bottle cap’s worth is enough to hatch larvae. In South Durham’s humid summer, here’s what to do:

• Dump standing water after every rainfall: check flowerpot saucers, pet bowls, grill covers, and toys.
• Clean gutters and repair leaky spouts. Replace corrugated extensions with smooth ones to prevent pooling.
• Cover or turn over unused items like buckets, wheelbarrows, and old tires.
• Change birdbath water twice weekly.
• Use larvicide tablets (mosquito dunks) in areas that collect standing water and can’t be drained.

4. Fortify Your Home: Keep Bugs Out

A few simple fixes go a long way:

• Repair window and door screens so they fit snugly and are tear-free.
• Add mesh covers to rain barrels.
• Use fans on porches – mosquitoes are weak flyers!

5. South Durham Action Steps

Local mosquito season peaks through August and September, especially near wooded areas, retention ponds, and trails (like the American Tobacco Trail). Keep an eye out in:

• Backyards with dense shade or vegetation
• Drainage areas behind subdivisions like Chancellor’s Ridge, Hope Valley Farms, and Woodcroft
• Community parks and greenways after heavy rain

6. When to Seek Medical Care

If you feel ill after a mosquito bite and have symptoms like fever, confusion, or neck stiffness, contact your health care provider promptly — especially if you’re over 60 or immunocompromised.

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