Mosquitoes become infected with the West Nile virus by biting infected birds. West Nile, a mosquito-borne infection that can cause encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord), was first found in New York state in 1999.

What can I do to prevent a West Nile infection?

The best way to avoid the virus is to avoid mosquito bites. Consider the use of a mosquito repellent when it is necessary to be outdoors. Even a short time sitting outdoors can be long enough to get a bite. When possible, wear long-sleeves, long pants and socks when outdoors.

Also, be sure to follow the instructions on the repellent label.

The hours from dusk to dawn are peak mosquito-biting times. Consider avoiding outdoor activities during these times.

What can I do around my home to prevent exposure to mosquitoes?

Many types of mosquitoes lay eggs in standing water. Weeds, tall grass and shrubbery provide an outdoor home for adult mosquitoes, who also may enter houses through unscreened windows, doors or broken screens. To reduce the mosquito population in and around your home, reduce or eliminate all standing water:

€ Dispose of tin cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots or other water-holding containers

€ Dispose of used tires

€ Remove all leaf debris

€ Make sure roof gutters drain properly and clean clogged gutters in the spring and fall

€ Turn over plastic wading pools and wheelbarrows when not in use

€ Change the water in bird baths twice weekly

€ Clean vegetation and debris from the edge of ponds

€ Clean and chlorinate swimming pools and drain water from pool covers

€ Use landscaping to eliminate standing water

What are the symptoms of West Nile?

Mild cases of infection may include a slight fever and head and body aches. Severe infections may also include muscle weakness and may progress to encephalitis or meningitis. Symptoms usually occur three to 14 days after exposure. There is no specific treatment for viral infections, other than to treat the symptoms and provide supportive care. Those who are at risk of becoming seriously ill from West Nile are persons who are over the age of 50. Healthy children and adults are at low risk for serious illness.

Should I use insect repellents?

Repellents can be effective, but their use is not without risk of health effects, especially if repellents are applied in large amounts or improperly. Repellents commonly available to consumers contain the active ingredients DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide), a permethrin or botanical oils. DEET products have been widely used, but have occasionally been associated with health effects. Skin reactions (particularly at DEET concentrations of 50 percent and above) and eye irritation are the most frequently reported health problems. Products containing permethrin are for use on clothing only, not on skin. Permethrin repellents can cause eye irritation. Insect repellents containing botanical oils are also available, but there is limited information on their effectiveness and toxicity.

If you decide to use a repellent, use only what and how much you need for your situation. In addition:

€ Be sure to follow directions

€ Use repellents only in small amounts, avoiding unnecessary repeat application

€ Children may be at greater risk for reactions to repellents, in part because their exposure may be greater; do not apply repellents directly to children - apply to your own hands and then put it on the child

€ Do not apply near eyes, nose or mouth and use sparingly around ears; do not apply to the hands of small children

€ After returning indoors, wash treated skin with soap and water

Why is it important to report dead birds?

Dead birds may provide an early indication of the appearance of West Nile in an area. Because crows are an especially good indicator, it is critical to report all dead crows to the USDA Bird Surveillance at (866) 537-2473. You should report the type of bird (if you know it), its location (including town, street, nearest cross street and zip code) and the date seen. The reports themselves are vital information used to help track the virus and determine where it may be most active.

To learn more, contact the Environmental Health Division of the Cayuga County Health and Human Services Department at 253-1405.

Other summer tips can be found on the county Web site at http://cayugacounty.us or by calling the New York State Department of Health at

(800) 458-1158 or visiting www.health.state.ny.us.

Elane Daly is director of Health and Human Services for Cayuga County. She can be reached at 253-1560 or cchealth@dfa.state.ny.us