For most kids, summer is their absolute favorite season of the year. There’s no school, the weather’s hot, and most of their time is spent outdoors with friends. However, summer also brings the risk of contracting the West Nile Virus. For most kids, the virus isn’t a big deal. But unfortunately it can lead to a very serious illness and swelling of the brain in rare instances. That’s why it is so important to protect your child from mosquito bites.
Mosquitos are very common in certain areas, such as the woods and open agricultural areas. They also stay near water. Rivers, lakes, and streams are usually very highly populated by these pesky insects. It doesn’t matter how dirty or stagnant the body of water is. They are attracted to high levels of humidity, which means that during the months of July and August they are out in full force.
Protecting your kids from exposure is the number one way to prevent the annoying bites and the potential development of the West Nile Virus. Fortunately, there are many ways to do this. First of all, there are substances that you can spray on your lawn that will kill both adults and larvae, as well as deter the insects from entering your yard. There are also special bug repellents that can be sprayed on your child. If your child is going to be out and about at dusk, try having them wear clothing that covers their bodies more and therefore doesn’t give any where for a mosquito to land on bare skin. And keep in mind that the time between dusk and dawn is the most prevalent time for these busy insects.
Symptoms of a West Nile infection include fatigue, fever, back pain, and headaches. Eye pain and skin rashes can also be present. In very rare cases, the infection can localize in the brain and the spinal cord, leading to swelling and paralysis. Keep in mind that this happens in less than 1% of the population, but when it does happen it is extremely serious and early treatment is absolutely crucial. Just be sure to reduce your child’s risk of becoming ill by an infected mosquito and still have an enjoyable summer while enjoying the night air.
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