Western Carolina University

Handouts

• La Crosse Encephalitis: What should I know? (PDF)
• "Tip and Toss” : A homeowner’s guide to preventing mosquito-borne disease (PDF)

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FAQS

What is Encephalitis?
Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain (encephalon = brain).

What causes La Crosse Encephalitis?
The disease is caused by a virus (La Crosse virus) that is transmitted by the bite of a mosquito.

What can I do to prevent La Crosse Encephalitis?

• Use an approved repellent according to the directions on the label
• Avoid peak biting hours (approximately 2 hours before and after dusk and dawn)
• Wear protective clothing
• Reduce “breeding” sites around your house
• Repair screen windows and doors

More information about prevention may be found here.

Where can I find more information about La Crosse Encephalitis?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention maintains the following webpage dedicated to La Crosse Encephalitis:  http://www.cdc.gov/lac/

Can mosquitoes transmit HIV (the virus that causes AIDS)?
No. Click here for more information.