Homeowners in Oklahoma City are constantly reminded to keep their family safe and healthy; it should count as an important household duty, so to speak. It is essential for every member to be health conscious to avoid getting ill. However, some diseases may even start from your very own abode.
West Nile Virus (WNV) is a disease transmitted by mosquitoes to humans. If left untreated, it can cause permanent neurological effects and worse, it can lead to death.
A report from koco.com reports the first case of West Nile virus in the area of Oklahoma along with symptoms that you should watch out for:
During 2013, 84 cases of WNV were confirmed among Oklahoma residents, including 8 deaths. Cases ranged in age from 17 to 92 years. WNV is spread through the bite of the Culex mosquito, which feeds on infected birds and transmits the virus when biting humans, horses, and some other mammals.
Symptoms of WNV include sudden onset of fever, headache, dizziness, and muscle weakness. Long-lasting complications can include difficulty concentrating, migraine headaches, extreme muscle weakness and tremors, and paralysis of a limb.
If one or more of these symptoms develop, especially after suffering mosquito bites within the previous two weeks, a health care provider should be contacted. Persons over the age of 50 are at greatest risk of developing severe neurologic disease from WNV. Some of the neurological effects of WNV may be permanent.
To keep away mosquitoes from your home, you should follow certain measures and double up precautions such as the following:
● Ensure that your windows and doors are always closed. Installing screen is also an option.
● De-clutter your home more often so there would be no breeding ground for mosquitoes.
● De-clog your gutters of debris that might be blocking the waterway. Seek the help of an expert for roofing in OKC and ask about roof guards.
Skyline Roofing can help with your home improvement needs to ensure your residence is mosquito-free. Our company not only provides roofing in Norman, we also render services for your siding, gutters and windows needs.
(Article Excerpt From First case of West Nile virus in Oklahoma confirmed, www.koco.com, Jul 10, 2014)