The Iowa Dept. of Public Health reports there have been three cases of West Nile virus identified in Iowa so far in 2019, with additional cases under investigation. Last year, 104 cases were identified in Iowa. West Nile virus remains a risk until the state’s first hard frost.The following steps can reduce the risk of exposure to mosquitoes:

• Use insect repellent with DEET, Picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR3535. Always read the repellent label and consult with a health care provider if you have questions when using these types of products for children. For example, oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under 3 years of age and DEET should not be used on children less than 2 months of age.
• Avoid outdoor activities at 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.

For more information, visit idph.iowa.gov/cade/disease-information/west-nile-virus.