Idaho is named one of the top states when it comes to skin cancer rates

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Story Published: Jul 6, 2009 at 4:57 PM MST

Story Updated: Jul 6, 2009 at 5:14 PM MST

By Hasti Taghi

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IDAHO FALLS - The heat is on and summer is in full swing. But beneath the sun's shining rays lie many dangers. Idaho has recently been named near the top of a list of states with the highest rates of new melanoma diagnoses and skin cancer deaths.

"It's really important to use a good sunscreen because it doesn't take too long at all to get a pretty significant burn," says Phil Hesse, Mountain View Hospital.

In fact, it can be as little as 15 minutes.

It's recommended you use at least an SPF 15 product. You need to apply at least an ounce per sitting and reapply every two hours and after swimming or sweating.

And the first case of West Nile Virus in Idaho has been confirmed in Bonneville County. A 70 year-old man is hospitalized.

"This time of year the mosquitoes are out. We've had lots of rain and it's heating up so mosquitoes are out and people are getting bit," says Mike Taylor, Eastern Idaho Public Health District.

"Prevent those mosquito bites by covering up and using mosquito spray," says Taylor.

Don't use scented soaps, perfumes or hair sprays.
Using a Sunscreen/insect repellent spray is not recommended. Sunscreen should be re-applied but the repellent should not.
Look for a spray containing DEET. Ten percent DEET products only work for about 30 minutes so try for something higher.

"Symptoms of west Nile virus include fever, sometimes a rash, stiffness of neck. Sometimes tremors or a stupor of thought," says Taylor.

The heat can also cause problems.

"The more heat you're exposed to, the more activity you're involved in, the more fluid you're gonna lose through respiration and sweat so it's important to drink plenty of fluids," says Hesse.

And avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages. They will cause you to lose more fluid.

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