West Nile Virus and too many mosquitoes in the USA

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Dallas County officials have declared a state of emergency after the West Nile virus infected at least 190 people, killing 10, as the nation’s worst outbreak hits Texas. I had no idea people could die from mosquito bites. The emergency declaration in Dallas clears the way for state money and resources to fight the outbreak. In the coming days the county will deploy small planes for aerial insecticide spraying over hard-hit neighborhoods, in addition to ground spraying already underway. Of all the states, in the US, Texas was hit the hardest. Statewide 16 deaths—including the 10 in Dallas County—have been reported so far this year, compared with two in 2011 and seven the year before, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services. And the virus is spreading at a faster pace this year across the state. As of Monday, 381 West Nile infections had been reported in more than two dozen Texas counties, compared with 27 infections reported statewide last year in a handful of counties. In Houston alone, about 95% of tested mosquitoes are carrying the virus. Those infected with West Nile virus may develop West Nile fever, with symptoms such as headache, fatigue, body aches, a skin rash on the trunk of the body and swollen lymph glands. The illness can last a few days to several weeks, according to the CDC. West Nile infections have increased in many states compared with recent years. California had its first reported West Nile death earlier this month, an 88-year-old woman in Kern County, and 18 West Nile infections reported statewide in eight counties, including one in Los Angeles. Nationwide, 241 West Nile infections were reported to the CDC as of the end of July. It's important that everyone be aware of how they can protect their selves, especially if they are elderly or have weak immune systems. Personally, I use a product called Avon Skin So Soft as a repellent. Do you live in a mosquito infested area? How do you protect yourself?