West Nile virus (WNV) & Saint Louis Encephalitis (SLE) are spread to people by the bite of  an infected mosquito.   This usually happens in summer & early fall when it is warm and mosquitoes are active. 

Symptoms

Most people infected with SLE have no apparent illness.  SLE symptoms include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting & tiredness.   Rare cases can lead to long-term disability or death.

Risks

The risk of getting seriously sick from WNV is low for most. Less than 1% can develop advanced neurological illnesses such as encephalitis or meningitis.

People 60+ and those with diabetes or hypertension have a higher chance of getting sick, and more likely get seriously ill.

Protect Yourself with the 3D’s:  DEET, Dawn, Drain

DEET	Keep bugs from biting by using bug spray (insect repellent) Apply per label instructions Insect repellent should contain DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR3535 Do not use on children two months or under
Dawn/Dusk	Mosquitoes carrying WNV usually bite in the early morning and evening Wear long sleeves & pants  if outside Doors and windows should have tight-fitting screens Repair or replace screens with holes
Drain	Mosquitoes can lay eggs in just an inch of standing water Drain all standing water from things like flower pots, old tires, buckets Contact  Madera County Environmental Health for swimming pools not being maintained