State and local public health officials are reminding Montanans to take steps to avoid mosquito bites and prevent infection with West Nile Virus (WNV). Summer is a prime time for exposure to mosquitos capable of transmitting WNV.

However, Montanans can reduce their chances of being bitten by following the advice of public health experts. Public health officials are also reminding the public that while WNV is a concern in Montana, Zika virus is not. In fact, the mosquitos that carry Zika virus have not been found in Montana or neighboring states.

To minimize risk of WNV, experts recommend reducing mosquito populations by removing mosquito breeding areas in and around the home. Simple steps such as draining bird-baths, wading pools or any container with still water every few days will minimize breeding sites.

Because it is not possible to eliminate all breeding sites, there are several recommendations people can follow to avoid being bitten. This includes wearing and safely using insect repellent when outdoors and wearing pants and long-sleeved shirts when possible.

“The best way to prevent West Nile virus is to take personal precautions to avoid mosquito bites,” said DPHHS Director Richard Opper. “We encourage everyone to take precautions against West Nile while recreating outside this summer.”

The 4 D’s of West Nile virus prevention should be followed to reduce the chance of mosquito bites.

• Dusk / Dawn:Peak mosquitos biting hours are dusk to dawn. Limit outdoor activity during those times. If you must be outside, be sure to protect yourself from bites. Dress:Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants to reduce the amount of exposed skin.

• DEET:Cover exposed skin with a repellant containing the chemical DEET, which is most effective against mosquito bites.

• Drain:Empty any containers holding standing water because they can be excellent breeding grounds for virus-carrying mosquitoes.

West Nile virus is transmitted to humans by infected mosquitos through bites. Most, about 4 out of 5 people infected will experience no symptoms and develop immunity. About 1 in 5 infected people develop a low grade fever, headache and muscle aches that begin a week or two after becoming infected. Generally, no treatment is needed.

However, in less than 1% of infected people, serious, life-threatening symptoms develop including headache, rash, high fever, stiff neck, mental confusion, and other symptoms.

Individuals who develop any of these symptoms should see their health-care provider

immediately. The number of West Nile virus human cases in Montana varies from year to year. Over 200 cases were reported in 2003 and 2007, but generally the average is about 10 reported human infections each year. Cases reported are more likely to be those that are severe and about one third of Montana cases required hospitalization.

“We can’t predict whether we’ll have a summer with little transmission of WNV or a more severe season,” said Christine Mulgrew, DPHHS WNV Program Manager. “That is why it is important to protect yourself from mosquito bites and eliminate breeding sites around your home.” With over 90 percent of cases occurring in August and September, it is time to start actively preventing mosquito bites.”

For more information go to the DPHHS website at http://www.dphhs.mt.gov.