The Tennessee Department of Health is urging people to protect themselves from viruses transmitted by mosquitoes. Last year Tennessee experienced 33 human cases of West Nile virus, including one in December. Four out of five people with West Nile won't show symptoms, but others will develop severe illness that can result in permanent neurological damage or even death.
A news release from the Health Department advises that people who think they may have West Nile virus should seek medical care immediately. The Department advises eliminating standing water near your home, replacing the water in bird baths weekly, keeping windows and doors closed or covered with screens and using insect repellents.