Back Off Bugs: Time to Take Back Your Yard

(ARA) - Few words strike more fear in outdoor enthusiasts than West Nile virus, Lyme disease or encephalitis. The insects that cause these nasty diseases are having a great year, due in part to major flooding throughout the country.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) there are more than 20 confirmed human cases of West Nile Virus from California to Tennessee so far this year and 17 states have reported hundreds of avian, animal or mosquito cases. The CDC also reports more than 5,000 cases of Lyme disease this year.

West Nile virus and encephalitis viruses come in many forms, but they have two things in common -- a non-human primary host, like a bird, horse or deer, and an infected blood-feeding arthropod, such as a mosquito or tick. The experts at the American College of Veterinary Pathology have been studying the connection between these pests and diseases for generations. In fact, a member of ACVP, Tracey McNamara, Bronx Zoo staff pathologist in 1999, discovered a critical connection between dozens of dead crows throughout metropolitan New York and several elderly patients suffering from muscular weakness, fever and confusion. Seven eventually died. The CDC credits her with potentially saving many lives. The cause? The mosquito-borne rare West Nile virus, a relative of the St. Louis encephalitic virus.

And while there's been a lot of attention on West Nile virus, it's also important to remember that Lyme disease accounts for more than 90 percent of all vector-borne infections in the United States. The "tick" disease causes a great deal of suffering for humans and animals.

Most human infections result in flu-like symptoms, which may include a fever, headache or other aches and pains. Infections may, however, lead to encephalitis, which can be fatal or lead to permanent neurological damage. Be sure to check with your doctor if you have any questions.

The best way to protect yourself and your family from West Nile virus or Lyme disease is to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes or ticks. Certainly more is known now than nearly a decade ago about West Nile virus and Lyme disease, but it's always wise to be aware of the potential dangers to protect yourself, your family and pets. It's easy to enjoy time outdoors without worry if you follow a few simple tips.

Stay Clear of Mosquitoes

*Wear EPA-approved insect repellant containing DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus when you are outside.

*Avoid going outside at dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active, or wear long pants and sleeves during those times.

*Check your doors and window screens to make sure there are no gaps, holes or tears where mosquitoes could come through.

* Destroy mosquito breeding grounds by eliminating standing water. Drain flowerpots, buckets, etc., and change the water in pet dishes and birdbaths often, at least once a week.

Be on the lookout for any dead birds and other animals and report any to your local health department. Avoid contact with the carcass as it may make you sick. Many bird deaths may indicate that the West Nile virus is in the area. In rare instances, it may also be an indication that Avian influenza may be in your area.

Beware the Wily Tick

*Wearing light-colored long pants and long sleeves is a good idea when traveling in tick territory. Be sure to tuck your shirt into pants and pants into socks to keep ticks off your skin when wandering in grass, woods, gardens or beach areas.

*Widen trails, remove shrubby overgrowth and move playsets to non-tick areas.

*Don't forget tick checks after outdoor fun.

Your pets need prevention too. Check with your veterinarian for recommendations on the best prevention tips for your cats, dogs, horses or other pets.

For more prevention information or information on these diseases, go to www.acvp.org.

Courtesy of ARAcontent