Foreclosures and West Nile Virus

The number of "bank owned" and "foreclosure" signs in your neighborhood are probably depressing, especially if it affects people you know and care about. The problem can lead to a form of neighborhood blight, as the homes and yards are rarely well cared for.

There is one problem you may not have thought about... back yard pools and debris that holds stagnant water. Mosquitoes love this sort of environment, it's perfect for laying their eggs to produce the next generation of this itchy pest. These mosquitoes can spread diseases, and one in particular is cropping up frequently, the West Nile virus.

In some areas, you may get a bit of advanced warning that the problem is occurring. West Nile attacks birds, and they will often drop dead for no physically apparent reason. If you happen to see this phenomenon, you should call vector control immediately.

Most people who catch the disease never know it, they will have no symptoms. There are two sets of symptoms that can occur, and again most people will have the more minor set. Twenty percent will have a fever, headache, body aches, swollen glands and fatigue. Some may also feel eye pain or have a skin rash.

One percent of the population will develop serious symptoms. Swelling of the membranes in the brain and spine are possible, including paralysis, severe headache, stupor and coma. A severe headache, stiff neck, tremors and confusion are also possible.

Mild episodes of West Nile usually clear up on their own in a few days without medical help. As you can see from the symptoms of the serious version, emergency medical help is needed, and you will probably need a stay in the hospital to get over it.

Blood tests can determine whether or not West Nile is the problem. You may also require a spinal tap and an EEG to test your brain activity if you develop more serious symptoms. These will let the doctors know what medications to prescribe to help you recover. Those with minor symptoms usually only require over the counter pain medications and lots of fluids.

One thing that needs done is prevention. If you notice a vacant house that is not being kept up, talk to the city and mention the concern of stagnant water. They have the records and can find out who is responsible for the building to let them know upkeep is required. You may also want to contact vector control, as they can go onto the property to check for mosquitoes.