West Nile Virus

Working Outdoors and West Nile Virus

What is West Nile Virus

West Nile virus (WNV) is a mosquito-borne disease that can infect humans, birds, horses and other mammals. In most humans, WNV infection can cause a mild flu-like illness, or may cause no symptoms at all. However in some cases, particularly among the elderly, it can cause severe neurological diseases such as encephalitis or meningitis. West Nile virus first appeared in North America in New York City in 1999. Since then, the virus has spread across the continental United States.

How is West Nile virus spread?

West Nile virus is predominantly spread to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito.

Do I need to change my safety practices when working outdoors?

It is not necessary to limit outdoor work or change standard outdoor health and safety practices, unless there is evidence of mosquito-borne disease in the area where you are working.

What if West Nile virus is identified in the area where I am working outdoors?

You can reduce your risk of disease by reducing mosquito bites. Mosquitoes are most active between dusk and dawn, but they may be present at any time of the day. Between June and October, when mosquitoes are active, take the following precautions:

• • When outside, especially between dusk and dawn wear protective clothing, such as long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and socks.
• • If outside, especially during dusk or dawn, consider the use of an insect repellant. If you use a DEET-containing repellant, use it according to manufacturer's directions, and:
• Apply DEET to exposed skin, socks, collars and other parts of clothing near exposed skin.
• Reapply DEET as necessary, but avoid prolonged or excessive use. Use sparingly to cover exposed skin and clothing.
• Wash all treated skin and clothing with soap and water after returning indoors.
• Store DEET out of reach of children.
• • Note: that vitamin B, ultrasonic devices, and incense have not been shown to be effective in preventing mosquito bites.
  
  For more information on repellents, see the DOHMH fact sheet on Insect Repellent Use & Safety
  

How can I avoid heat stress on hot, humid days?

If you wear a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, shoes and socks to reduce the risk of mosquito bites, you might be at greater risk for heat stress on hot, humid days. If you are required to wear clothing on the job that limits evaporation, you could develop heat stress more quickly. To avoid heat stress, you should:

• • Wear light-colored, breathable clothing
• • Drink plenty of water before and during your shift
• • Avoid drinks with alcohol and caffeine during work hours
• • Take breaks as necessary in the shade or indoors.

What is the City doing to address the problem of West Nile virus?

New York City is working to reduce the risk of West Nile virus infection. The main goal is to decrease the number of adult mosquitoes by eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed. New York City asks residents and workers to report standing water, such as catch basins that do not drain, areas with flooding, and water containing trash, by calling 311. By killing mosquito eggs and larva, we can avoid having to spray pesticides to kill adult mosquitoes.

Is the City planning to spray pesticides?

New York City may use spraying of pesticides to target adult mosquitoes, but only as an emergency measure if there is a risk to human health from West Nile Virus. The City is hopeful that with an early and aggressive campaign against mosquitoes, the need for spraying of pesticides will be reduced.

What health risks are posed to people and pets from pesticides for adult mosquitoes?

In the amounts used, risks to people and pets are relatively low. However, some people may be more sensitive to pesticides and may want to reduce their chance of exposure by following the suggestions below. Spraying will always occur at night, when the fewest workers and residents are outdoors.

How will the public be notified in advance about spraying activities?

Residents will learn about spraying schedules through public service announcements, the media, the City's Web site and a telephone information line.

If the City sprays pesticides in an area where I am, what should I do during the spraying?

If pesticide spraying occurs, the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene recommends that all individuals take the following precautions to avoid direct exposure to pesticides and reduce the risk of any reactions to pesticides.

• • Whenever possible, stay indoors during spraying.
• • Some individuals are sensitive to pesticides. People with asthma or other respiratory conditions are especially encouraged to stay inside during spraying since there is a possibility that spraying could worsen those conditions.
• • Wash skin and clothing exposed to pesticides with soap and water.

Anyone who thinks he or she is experiencing a reaction to pesticides should seek medical care or call the NYC Poison Control Center at (212) POISONS (764-7667).

For more information on West Nile virus, call 311 or visit nyc.gov/health/wnv.