First West Nile case confirmed in eastern Nebraska; protection key

    The first human case of West Nile virus this season has been found in the Three Rivers Public Health District in eastern Nebraska.
    The person who tested positive was not hospitalized, according to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services.
    West Nile virus is the most preventable mosquito-borne disease in the U.S., according to health officials.
    Transmission of West Nile Virus occurs through the bite of a mosquito that has acquired the virus by feeding on an infected bird. In turn, the mosquito passes the virus to humans.
    Individuals cannot get West Nile from a dead bird. The best thing the public can do to protect themselves from the virus is to avoid mosquitoes.
    People can reduce their risk by:
    Using a repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, lemon eucalyptus oil or IR3535
    Wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, shoes and socks when outside
    Taking extra precautions when going outdoors at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active
    Draining standing water around homes. Standing water and warmth breed mosquitoes  
    Irrigate lawns and gardens carefully to prevent water from standing for several days
Empty and change the water in bird baths, fountains, wading pools, rain barrels and potted trays at least once a week
    Make sure window and door screens are “bug tight” and repair or replace torn screens
    Most people who are infected have no symptoms or only mild flu-like symptoms. Less than 1% of people infected with West Nile virus become severely ill.
    However, people over 50 and those with weakened immune systems are especially vulnerable to the disease and are more likely to experience serious consequences.