Prevention

No vaccine for West Nile virus exists, although researchers are trying to develop one. However, there are ways you can help prevent mosquito bites:

1. Avoid mosquito bites by avoiding mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are most active between dusk and dawn. Try not to spend much time outside at this time.
2. Use insect repellent. Products containing DEET at a concentration of 25 percent to 50 percent work best. Spray it on exposed skin and clothing. Products with a higher percentage of DEET (up to 50 percent) last longer. Don't spray repellent on skin under clothing, and don't use products containing the pesticide permethrin on skin. Products with DEET are safe for adults and children over 2 months of age, although lower concentrations of DEET such as 10 percent to 30 percent are often recommended for children. Do not put DEET on children's hands because it may get into their mouth or eyes. Another insect repellent that works is picaridin. Products containing 19.2 percent picaridin can provide protection for at least nine hours. Cutter Advanced® is presently the only American product with picaridin. It contains a 7 percent concentration, which lasts about two hours. Lemon eucalyptus, a plant-based repellant, provides protection similar to that of DEET. It is found in OFF! Botanicals® and Repel Lemon Eucalyptus®. It shouldn't be used on children under age 3.
3. Cover up. Wear long sleeved shirts and long pants. Permethrin impregnated clothing is now available from mail order sporting goods stores, making insect protection more convenient.
4. Use screens on windows and doors.
5. Eliminate possible mosquito breeding places. Empty standing water from buckets, cans, pool covers, flowerpots and other items. Throw away or cover up stored tires and other items that aren't being used. Clean pet water bowls weekly. Check if rain gutters are clogged. If you store water outside or have a well, make sure it's covered. Encourage your neighbors to do the same.
6. Help your community. Dead birds help health departments track West Nile. Report any dead birds to your local or state health department. Do not touch the bird or any dead animal with your bare hands.

More on West Nile Virus

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This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.