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Tulsa Health Department Urges Protection Against West Nile Virus


The Tulsa Health Department (THD) wants to remind the public to take precautions against West Nile virus (WNV). The months of July through October are the highest risk months for exposure to WNV in Oklahoma.

Thus far in 2007, one human case of WNV has been confirmed in an Oklahoma County resident. There are currently no confirmed human cases of West Nile virus in Tulsa County. The state of Oklahoma reported 48 human cases of WNV for 2006, with 6 deaths. Fifty-four cases of human infection with WNV have been reported nationwide this year.

"From testing in previous years, we know that the disease is now a seasonal health threat throughout Oklahoma," said Tulsa Health Department Director Gary Cox.

WNV is transmitted in Oklahoma primarily by Culex mosquitoes. These mosquitoes pick up the virus when they feed on infected birds, and then transmit the virus when they bite humans, horses and some other mammals. Symptoms of West Nile disease include fever, intense headache, extreme tiredness, muscle weakness, and dizziness.

To protect against mosquitoes, the Tulsa Health Department suggests that you remember the "4 D's of Defense" prevention tips. They include the following

  • :• Dusk and dawn - Avoid outdoor activities during these prime times for mosquito activity.

  • • Dress - Wear long pants and long sleeves when outside to cover the skin.

  • • DEET - Use an insect repellent containing DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide) when outdoors and reapply according to directions.

  • • Drain - Drain those items that collect standing water around your home, yard or business. Scrub and refill pet water dishes and bird baths regularly.

The Tulsa Health Department also works to control mosquito populations during the spring and summer. In a typical mosquito season, THD sprays over 800 square miles for adult mosquitoes. To place a complaint about mosquitoes in your area, please call 918-595-4219.

Additionally, THD helps the Oklahoma State Department of Health monitor incidences of the virus through the West Nile Virus Surveillance Program. This program tests mosquitoes for the virus. You can help by reporting to THD if you see a dead bird of the following types: crows, blue jays, cardinals, hawks, owls or eagles. To report a sighting of one of these types of dead birds, please call 918-595-4344. While birds are no longer being tested, THD will record dead bird sightings.

For more information about West Nile virus prevention, visit the Tulsa Health Department web site at http://www.tulsa-health.org.