By answering this question, state policy makers can better assess whether or not the program is worthwhile state-wide, or possibly better used in those towns that have been identified with cases of the West Nile Virus.

Of course, this question may be hard to answer at the beginning of any new disease simply because we may not have all the facts we feel we need to make an informed judgment. There are also other factors to consider, as the blessing of the first frost, and the public’s perception of the benefits of spraying Vs. the cost of spraying, along with the inconvenience during spraying and perceived effects of exposure to the chemicals used. Thus, what may seem like a sound public health intervention may not necessarily be viewed the same way by the public!

Of course, diverse responses from different areas will have some kind of impact on how the virus will be transmitted. Think of how “herd immunity” works in protecting the public - not everyone has to be immunized, but you still need a sizeable percentage of immunized individuals for this to work.

Also, this will also make it harder for Public Health Practitioners to assess if whatever spraying has been done will be effective in containing the spread.

This is why it is important for Public Health Practitioners to know the public they are serving, learn to understand their fears, etc. It is also why communication skills are so important to being an effective Public Health Practitioner.