Carried by birds and passed on to humans when mosquitoes bite first an infected bird and then a person, West Nile has shown that it can survive the cold season, apparently in mosquitoes that manage to overwinter. And now it’s not just New York’s problem. Health officials discovered the virus in dead birds in Boston last week. Surveillance programs are on alert in 17 states, from the East Coast to Texas, to spot the virus. Even in infested areas, though, only 1 percent of mosquitoes harbor the virus. And most people who are bitten have either no symptoms or minor ones, such as fever and aches. Only in rare cases does West Nile become serious, causing muscle weakness and confusion. At its worst, the virus can cause permanent neurological damage or even kill. To lower risk further, wear long clothing and use insect repellent with 10 percent to 35 percent DEET. The battle will continue–but it shouldn’t ruin your summer.
