The first Iowa case of West Nile Virus in 2019 has been reported by the Iowa Department of Public Health. Fortunately for the victim, an older male between ages 61-80, it was not lethal.

Last year in Iowa 104 persons were infected and nine of those persons died from the virus carried by mosquitoes.

CBS2 News reported the infected man was from Audubon County.

The Iowa Department of Public Health recommends Iowans take these precautions to avoid the dangers of mosquito bites:

  • Use insect repellent with DEET, Picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR3535.
  • However, DEET should not be used on children less than 2 months of age.
  • Avoid outdoor activities between dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.
  • Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, shoes and socks outdoors whenever possible.
  • Eliminate standing water around the home because that's where mosquitoes lay eggs. Empty water from buckets, cans, pool covers and pet water dishes. Change water in bird baths every three to four days.

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