What Seniors Say About West Nile Virus

The Threat is Not Over

Abstract

Public health surveillance reports indicate that the recent rapid population increase among senior citizens is accompanied by a nationwide spread of West Nile virus (WNV), an emerging disease that poses a threat to the elderly. Information gathered from senior citizens in the County, showed that overall, 81.6% of seniors knew that WNV is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito; but only 63.2% knew that older adults have a higher risk of severe complications from WNV infection. A tailored health education outreach program, based on the health belief model and epidemiologic triad, was implemented to share about WNV infection prevention and control. This included the reduction of mosquito breeding and bites; improved use of personal protective measures for outdoor exposures at dusk and at night; and use of repellants. Because the threat of WNV is not over, it is important to keep seniors and other vulnerable populations involved in issues that affect their health, community, and environment