Biting back against West Nile Virus

I've stocked up on bug spray for the summer, but now I need to remember to wear it. Experts with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are expecting another epidemic this year of West Nile virus. The mosquito-borne illness can cause debilitating symptoms including high fever, headaches, body aches, nausea and vomiting. Here are some tips to reduce your risk of becoming infected.

1) Stay inside at dawn and dusk, the peak mosquito biting times.

2) Wear bug spray. Adults should use a repellent that contains at least a 50 percent concentration of DEET. Apply permethrin sprays directly to clothing. Natural products such as oil of lemon eucalyptus may be effective.

3) Hit the hardware store. Install or repair window and door screens so mosquitoes cannot get indoors.

4) Drain standing water. At least twice a week, empty water from flower pots, rain barrels, swimming pool covers, birdbaths and other containers that collect water. Discard old tires and clean out rain gutters.

West Nile virus usually reaches its peak between mid-July and mid-September, but it can be a threat year-round in some Southern states.

Judy Fortin's Health Minute segment runs daily on Headline News from 10am to 6pm ET weekdays.