West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne disease that can, in rare instances, cause encephalitis, inflammation of the brain.

Mosquitoes spread the virus after they feed on infected birds and then bite other birds, animals or people.

West Nile is not spread by person to person contact, and there is no evidence people can get the virus by handling infected animals.

Mosquitoes need water to live. As you know, we have had many rainy days this spring. Mosquitoes can develop into adults in a minimum of four days.

You can help by eliminating standing water around your home.

Get rid of anything that collects water:

• Old tires

• Tin cans

• Buckets

• Watering cans

• Flower pots

Stop stagnant water by:

• Repairing leaky pipes and outdoor faucets

• Clearing drains and gutters of debris

• Eliminate low spots where water might collect on pool covers and tarps

• Change the water in bird baths and kiddie pools

• Cover trash containers and recycling bins

• Empty drip trays of planters

• Fill in tree holes and stumps with sand

• Store wheelbarrows upside down

BTI is a naturally occurring bacterium that is used to kill mosquito larvae. This material is now becoming widely available for you to buy and use at home.Two common forms of BTI are:• A donut-shaped form that is useful in small areas of standing water, such as a bird bath or small puddle of water that might gather in low spots in your yard.• A granular form that is more effective for larger areas such as backyard pools.BTI can be purchased in many lawn and garden, outdoor supply and home improvement stores. BTI is safe to use and efficiently eliminates mosquitoes. Of course, you should always follow label directions.Avoid bitesThe best way to avoid West Nile is to avoid mosquito bites. Dawn and dusk are the peak times for mosquito activity.Wear long sleeves and pants outdoors. Apply insect repellant containing DEET sparingly according to label directions.Repair windows and screens so mosquitoes cannot enter.Dead birdsThe state Health Department is coordinating the collection of suspicious dead bird specimens for possible testing.Species of interest include crows, blue jays and birds of prey including owls, hawks and eagles.Should you find a dead bird, you can contact the department at 877-PA-HEALTH.Horses, like humans, are susceptible to West Nile.There are vaccines available for horses. Contact your veterinarian for information.Ron Fodor is district manager of the Butler County Conservation District.