Ecology Distribution Management Info Impact Info References and Links Contacts

Management Information Preventative measures: According to the CDC (2003), the most effective and economical way to control West Nile virus is to control mosquitoes by larval source reduction through locally funded abatement programs that monitor mosquito populations and initiate control before disease transmission occurs. No vaccine or specific treatment exists to prevent or combat the West Nile virus infection. Treatment of severe illness includes hospitalization, use of intravenous fluids and nutrition, respiratory support, prevention of secondary infections, and good nursing care. Medical care should be sought as soon as possible for persons who have symptoms suggesting severe illness. Individuals should reduce their contacts with mosquitoes by taking the following actions: 1) when outdoors, clothing should be worn that covers the skin, such as long sleeve shirts and pants, 2) effective insect repellent containing DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide) should be applied to clothing and exposed skin, and 3) outside activity should be curbed during the hours that mosquitoes are feeding, which often includes dawn and dusk. An effort should also be taken to reduce the number of mosquitoes in outdoor work or play areas by draining sources of standing water, which will reduce mosquito breeding habitat. In addition, screens should be applied to doors and windows and regularly maintained to keep mosquitoes from entering buildings.          Management Resources/Links 1. CDC (Center for Disease Control). 2003. West Nile Virus Basics. Fort Collins, Colorado.         Summary: A detailed report that describes all aspects of the ecology, biology, prevention and distribution of the West Nile Virus. Available from: http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/#about [Accessed 13 May 2003]. 2. Spurr, E.B., 2004. Preliminary risk assessment for the establishment of West Nile virus in New Zealand / Eric B. Spurr & Graham R. Sandlant. – Lincoln, N.Z. : Manaaki Whenua Press, 2004.         Summary: An assessment of the risk that West Nile virus (WNV) might establish in New Zealand was conducted by comparing the taxonomic relatedness of potential vectors and hosts in New Zealand to known WNV vectors and hosts overseas, and assessing whether WNV might survive and spread after arriving. Surveillance strategies currently used in North America to detect outbreaks of WNV were reviewed and assessed to establish whether they are relevant to New Zealand or whether other strategies should be used. Available from: http://www.landcareresearch.co.nz/publications/scienceseries/downloads/lrsciseries25_spurr2004_4web.pdf [Accessed 9 September 2005]          Results Page: 1