State Health officials urge precautions against West Nile virus

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- The state Health Department is warning Oklahomans to prepare for the <b><a class="headlinelink" href="http://www.kotv.com/main/home/searchKOTV.asp?mainSearch=West Nile virus">West

Thursday, May 26th 2005, 2:45 pm

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- The state Health Department is warning Oklahomans to prepare for the West Nile virus.

The department is ending its testing program of dead birds and now focusing on mosquito control and informing the public on how to avoid the potentially deadly virus.

People should avoid outdoor activities at dawn and dusk; wear long pants and sleeves when outside; insect repellant containing DEET; and make sure areas where water collects are drained.

The West Nile virus was first confirmed in Oklahoma during the summer of 2002 and 122 Oklahomans have contracted the disease. Five have died.