The spread of the West Nile virus in the US has increased the awareness of more people in the use of insect repellents containing DEET. Scientifically known as N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide, DEET is the active ingredient used in most insect repellents that are applied directly on the skin. Primarily used to protect against mosquitoes, especially those that help spread the West Nile Virus, DEET insect repellents are also effective protecting against other disease causing insects such as ticks. DEET is…

A team of scientists from the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis and Utah State University have found a possible explanation to a puzzling and serious complication caused by a West Nile Virus infection. The researchers have shown that how the West Nile virus spread from nerve cell to nerve cell has a lot to do with triggering acute flaccid paralysis, a condition that leaves one or more limbs of an individual infected with the West Nile virus limp and unresponsive. Studies made…

The West Nile Virus has been known to be spread mainly by birds but is also known to infect other animals such as dogs, horses, cats, and rodents. But the main source of human infection comes by way of a bite from an infected mosquito. Once infected, the virus may spread and may affect humans in three different ways. The first effect that the West Nile virus can have on humans is asymptomatic, or one that shows no symptoms whatsoever. The infected person does not experience any noticeable signs …

The best way to avoid getting infected with the West Nile virus is by avoiding coming into contact with its carriers- the mosquitoes. Although this cannot be avoided most of the time especially when you find yourself out of doors, there are many things available that may help protect yourself from getting bitten by these upsetting insects and avoid getting the West Nile virus. One of the most effective weapons against the West Nile virus carriers is the mosquito repellent. The most effective mos…