People who work outdoors are at higher risk of West Nile virus infection due to their potential exposure to mosquitoes. West Nile virus is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito, and local health experts believe the virus is likely to show up in Washington state this summer.

Public Health - Seattle & King County is reminding persons who work outdoors to take protective measures to avoid mosquito bites. Businesses and agencies employing outdoor workers are urged to learn about West Nile virus and provide training or educational material to their employees. Some employers may also choose to provide insect repellents or protective clothing to employees. All businesses and agencies are encouraged to eliminate sources of standing water where mosquitoes breed.

Public Health can provide educational materials including brochures, fact sheets and videos to assist employers in West Nile prevention and control. Technical assistance in developing mosquito surveillance and control plans is also offered. Contact the Environmental Health section’s West Nile virus program staff at 206-205-4394.

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health in conjunction with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has a webpage with West Nile virus prevention recommendations for employers and workers. This information is available at: www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/westnile/recout.html

Other useful information about insect repellents for protecting outdoor workers can be found at:

• www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/RepellentUpdates.htm
• www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/qa/insect_repellent.htm
• www.epa.gov/pesticides/factsheets/insectrp.htm