DHH says it's time to protect against mosquitoes

The Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals confirmed three new cases of West Nile virus last week, the first cases of 2015. The new infections include two cases of neuroinvasive disease, one in DHH Region 2, the Baton Rouge area, and one in Region 6 near Alexandria.
The third case, also in Region 6, was asymptomatic.
About 90 percent of all West Nile virus cases are asymptomatic, while about 10 percent will develop West Nile fever. Only a very small number of infected individuals will show the serious symptoms associated with the neuroinvasive disease, the DHH said.
“There is an opportunity for you to get bitten every time you step outside, whether you’re taking a quick walk to the mailbox or spending hours at the ball park,” said State Health Officer Dr. Jimmy Guidry. “You need to take the proper steps to protect yourself and your home from mosquitoes every time you go outdoors.”
Protecting yourself
—If you will be outside, you should wear a mosquito repellent containing DEET. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that repellents should contain no more than 30 percent DEET when used on children. Insect repellents also are not recommended for children younger than 2 months. CDC recommends that you always follow the recommendations appearing on the product label when using repellent.
—Apply repellent on exposed skin and clothing. Do not apply under your clothes or on broken skin.
— To apply repellent to your face, spray on your hands and then rub on your face.
—Adults should always apply repellent to children.
—Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when outdoors for long periods of time.
—Avoid perfumes and colognes when outdoors for extended periods of time.
— Make sure that your house has tight-fitting windows and doors, and that all screens are free of holes.