The District of Columbia Department of Health announces its annual campaign to detect and respond to the West Nile Virus.

Introduction

West Nile Virus has been found in many eastern states and the District of Columbia. West Nile Virus is mainly an infection of birds and on rare occasions may be spread to humans by mosquito bites. The virus is found mainly in crows, blue jays and hawks. In human infections, the virus causes no symptoms or may cause mild flu-like symptoms and is rarely severe.

Last year (2001) 354 crows, 5 blue jays, 1 mocking bird and 3 mosquito pools tested positive for West Nile Virus in the District of Columbia. NO HUMAN CASES WERE DETECTED.

Special Notes

Senior citizens, the very young and those with suppressed immune systems are more vulnerable. These residents are encouraged to stay indoors at dawn, dusk and early evening when mosquitoes are more active.

If persons must be outdoors, they should wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants and apply insect repellent with DEET to exposed skin according to the manufacturer's directions. For children, use a product with a DEET concentration of less than 30 percent. Persons with a severe illness should seek medical attention promptly.

Spraying

Should spraying be needed in the District it will occur during the nighttime hours to kill adult mosquitoes. If we conduct spraying operations, you will be notified through the media and outreach efforts. When you are notified, please try to stay indoors, close your windows and bring your pets inside during spraying operations.