West Nile Virus (encephalitis)
West Nile virus is transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito. Most infected people have either no symptoms or only mild ones, such as fever, headache, mild skin rash, or swollen lymph glands. A serious infection, though, could lead to viral encephalitis, a swelling of the brain which can be fatal.

Prevention
• Stay indoors at dawn, dusk, and in the early evening when mosquitoes are most active. Patch and repair window screens.
• Use insect repellents with DEET, according to manufacturer's instructions.
• Wear long sleeves and long pants when possible.

Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are part of the environment, but since many don't travel more than a few miles from where they hatch, you can reduce hazards by eliminating potential hatching places near your home. In warm weather, mosquitoes can breed in just about any puddle of standing water.

Prevention
• Dispose of unneeded outdoor items or refuse such as tin cans, bottles, and tires.
• If you store uncovered garbage bins or recycling buckets outdoors or in basements that flood, drill holes in the bottom of the bins so they can drain.
• Turn over items stored outdoors, such as canoes and wading pools, when not in use.
• Keep roof gutters clear.
• Keep swimming pools chlorinated and clean; ornamental pools can be aerated or stocked with fish to prevent mosquito hatching.