The best defense against West Nile Virus is mosquito control. The elimination of standing water is key in the prevention of mosquito breeding sites. To minimize reproduction, people need to be aware of potential egg-laying habitats found around their homes. All containers that could hold water should be emptied and cleaned regularly. This includes birdbaths, pool covers, cans, buckets, tires and children’s toys (such as wagons). Gutters and pools also need to be cleaned and maintained. “The single most important control effort should be to eliminate or minimize breeding habitats near dwellings or stable areas. By minimizing breeding sites, everyone can decrease the number of adult mosquitoes,” said Dr. Gail Hansen, Acting State Epidemiologist for the State of Kansas.
Other methods of protection can help prevent the virus from being spread. Cleaning debris from roadside ditches and drilling holes in trash barrels and other containers where water can accumulate will prevent the possibility of a habitat from forming. Replacing all outdoor lamps with yellow light bulbs, instead of white will decrease the chance of attracting mosquitoes. Putting minnows and goldfish in ponds to prey on the insect will limit the populations’ survival. Keeping the banks of lagoons and ponds clean and free of debris and vegetation will also prevent breeding grounds.
For more information about West Nile Virus and preventing infection go to www.oznet.ksu.edu/westnilevirus.