Fight the Bite! Published June 2, 2015 By U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Amy Easton 97th Medical Group (ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE, Okla.) -- The City of Altus has experienced a surge in rainfall in recent weeks, and you may have noticed an increase in the mosquito population. In addition to the annoyance factor, mosquitos carry the potential to spread infectious diseases such as the West Nile Virus. The West Nile Virus has been detected in 48 states, and outbreaks have occurred every summer since 1999. So far, there is no human vaccine for the West Nile Virus infection and treatment is only available for the symptoms which may result from the infection. Most people who become infected with the West Nile Virus do not develop any symptoms, but some may experience headache, fever, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea or rash beginning two to six days after exposure. Extreme cases can lead to fatal encephalitis. In southern Oklahoma, the mosquito season begins in May and lasts well into October. In 2014, 18 cases of the West Nile Virus were reported in Oklahoma. Although, there were no reported cases in Jackson County, nearby counties in Texas have reported West Nile Virus cases. The base Public Health Flight routinely collects mosquito specimens, which are tested for diseases such as West Nile Virus. How to protect yourself: you can reduce the mosquitoes around your home by taking the following measures: · Eliminate standing water where mosquitos can breed (pools, buckets, other containers) · Change water in flower vases, birdbaths, planters and animal watering pans at least twice a week · Repair leaky pipes and outside faucets and clean your roof gutters · Get rid of weeds, tall grass and overgrown areas Furthermore, you can decrease your risk of exposure to the West Nile Virus by limiting outside activities at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active. If you must be outdoors at these times, use insect repellant containing 30 percent DEET and wear long sleeved shirts and pants. Placing intact screens on doors and windows can prevent exposure indoors. For more information on the West Nile Virus prevention, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at http://www.cdc.gov/westnile/.