Oklahomans getting ready to battle West Nile virus

Spring temperatures mean a growing threat to your health. Officials remind us that cooling temperatures and hatching mosquito eggs bring the potential for the West Nile virus. <br><br>Oklahoma was part

Monday, April 14th 2003, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

Spring temperatures mean a growing threat to your health. Officials remind us that cooling temperatures and hatching mosquito eggs bring the potential for the West Nile virus.

Oklahoma was part of a national epidemic in July of last year. 21 people came down with the virus in our state. 2 people died. There's still no vaccine and no cure.

So the best protection is prevention. Here are some tips. Officials recommend spraying clothing and exposed skin with an insect repellent containing â€˜DEET.â€™ The higher the percentage, the longer the protection. Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when you're outdoors.

Some people who can't use â€˜DEETâ€™, find essential oils like lavender, lemon grass and catnip also ward-off mosquitoes, but they have to re-apply more often.