In the summer of 2012, the United States has experienced the largest, most extensive West Nile virus outbreak in history. As of late August, over 1200 people in the United States have reported exposure to the virus, and out of those, almost 50 lives have been lost in the wake of this terrifying, unknown virus.
The lifespan of the common mosquito peaks in the second or third week of August, and with it taking on average 14 days for symptoms of West Nile virus to appear, it is estimated that hundreds more people will fall ill by September.
It is of vital importance that people research what they can do to protect themselves and their families. There is no definite way to avoid contact with the West Nile virus, but there are so many ways to practice caution, it is definitely in the best interest of everyone to begin new precautions in order to keep your family, friends, and neighbors safe.
