The West Nile Virus got its name from Uganda, where it was discovered in 1937 in the district of West Nile.
This disease has travelled to many areas of the world, which includes North America and Europe.
Therefore, whenever you are visiting another part of the world, keep an eye out for this disease.
However, it may not take you leaving your home to be infected with it, it may be present in your surroundings.
Therefore, it is important to take steps to prevent this disease from spreading and before I get to these steps, let me briefly define what this infection is.
The West Nile Virus is a disease that is spread from birds such as crows and ravens to human beings and other animals via mosquitoes.
A child and an adult whose immune system has been compromise by cancer for example, stands a greater chance of experiencing severe symptoms.
Some steps to protect yourself from this virus are: Keep Mosquitoes at Bay Use insects repellent when you are outdoors and wear long pants and long sleeves shirts when you are outside at a time when mosquitoes are known to be active.
Additionally, keep away from dark clothing because these insects are attracted to dark clothing.
No Breathing Ground Do not give these insects a breathing ground to multiply.
Many people have growing plants in their homes as well as on their patio.
If this is the case with you, make sure that the water-catch for the plants is always free of water.
Additionally, do not leave anything, such as a birdbath and water bowls for animals, with water around your home, because they can harbour mosquitoes.
Dead Birds Keep away from dead birds and report any large quantity of dead birds to the authority.
Presently, there is no vaccination to protect us from this virus, so keeping it at bay is highly recommended.