For the past several weeks, reports of the mosquito-borne West Nile Virus have spread throughout the media. Five people died thus far as a result of the disease and the number of reported cases continues to grow. Most reported cases have come from Louisiana and other southern states, but health officials expect the disease to spread from coast to coast within the next few months.

These events should make it clear to us how important it is to keep our immune systems strong and healthy. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that about one in five people bitten by an infected mosquito will develop symptoms such as headaches or flu-like symptoms. This is particularly true for the elderly and anyone with a weak immune system or chronic illness.

Dr. Roy Campbell, a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention epidemiologist said,

"It's not time for panic. It's time to take precaution."

We all have immune systems which have the ability to counteract this virus.  All we need to do is insure that our immune systems are up to par.  

Immune systems can be strengthened by: 

1.  Supplementing our diets with intestinal flora to our diet is one of the most simple ways to boost our immune systems.  

2.  Supplementing our diets with antiseptic herbs as outlined on our infection removal page is another way of combating viral germs we may encounter.  

Both types of supplements will strengthen your immune system and counteract the West Nile Virus if by chance you become infected.  

For more information about the West Nile Virus, click on the following links:  

CBS: http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2002/07/26/health/main516475.shtml