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2007-8-28 18:35:23 |
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As of Friday August 3, California has reported 64 human cases of West Nile virus (WNV) in 15 counties, according to Westnile.ca.gov, the state agency that monitors the virus activity in the state. 22 cases were newly reported last week from nine counties including Fresno (3), Glenn (1), Kern (10), Kings (1), Merced (2), Sacramento (1), San Joaquin (1), Santa Clara (1), and Stanislaus (2). In comparison, as of the same day of last year, California had only reported a total of 20 human cases of West Nile virus. Five people have died so far this year from complications of West Nile virus infection in California from Colusa (1), Kern (2), Kings (100 and San Joaquin (1) counties. Four deaths were reported earlier including 2 in Kern County, 1 in San Joaquin County and 1 in Colusa County. California is the state that has been hit hardest by the West Nile virus. Although the number of counties where West Nile virus activity was reported in 2007 is similar to that in 2006, the virus seems much more active this year in birds and mosquitoes in the state. This year, 37 counties have already reported 502 dead birds that tested positive for West Nile virus, compared to 299 dead birds reported thus far last year. 402 positive batches of mosquitoes were reported this year, compared to 349 in 2006. After the state announced new human deaths from West Vile August 1, Governor Schwarzenegger next day declared state of emergency in counties hit hardest by West Nile virus. "Today I'm taking action to help the counties hit hardest by West Nile Virus. My proclamation makes financial assistance available to the local vector control districts and directs state agencies to take proactive measures to protect Californians from further spread of this deadly virus," said Governor Schwarzenegger. Since taking office, the governor has invested more than $15 million to fight the West Nile virus. "I will continue to ensure our local agencies have whatever resources they need to fight the spread of this disease." " West Nile virus is transmitted to humans and animals through a mosquito bite. Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds," according to the California Department of Public Health. In 80 percent of cases, people do not show any clinical symptoms after infection of West Nile virus. But people age 50 and older are at high risk of getting sick and more likely to develop serious symptoms when infected with West Nil virus. According to the CDPH, the most effective ways for individuals to prevent exposure to West Nile virus are: Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaradin or oil of lemon eucalyptus, according to label instructions. Ensure doors and windows have tight-fitting screens. Repair or replace screens that have tears or holes. Eliminate all sources of standing water that can support mosquito breeding. Wear clothing that reduces the risk of skin exposure and avoid spending time outside at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active. The following is cited from the CDC for those who are interested in knowing more about West Nile virus. West Nile Virus: What You Need To Know What Is West Nile Virus? West Nile virus (WNV) is a potentially serious illness. Experts believe WNV is established as a seasonal epidemic in North America that flares up in the summer and continues into the fall. This fact sheet contains important information that can help you recognize and prevent West Nile virus. What Can I Do to Prevent WNV? The easiest and best way to avoid WNV is to prevent mosquito bites. ? When you are outdoors, use insect repellent containing an EPA-registered active ingredient. Follow the directions on the package. ? Many mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn. Be sure to use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants at these times or consider staying indoors during these hours. ? Make sure you have good screens on your windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out. ? Get rid of mosquito breeding sites by emptying standing water from flower pots, buckets and barrels. Change the water in pet dishes and replace the water in bird baths weekly. Drill holes in tire swings so water drains out. Keep children's wading pools empty and on their sides when they aren't being used. What Are the Symptoms of WNV? ? Serious Symptoms in a Few People. About one in 150 people infected with WNV will develop severe illness. The severe symptoms can include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness and paralysis. These symptoms may last several weeks, and neurological effects may be permanent. ? Milder Symptoms in Some People. Up to 20 percent of the people who become infected have symptoms such as fever, headache, and body aches, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes swollen lymph glands or a skin rash on the chest, stomach and back. Symptoms can last for as short as a few days, though even healthy people have become sick for several weeks. ? No Symptoms in Most People. Approximately 80 percent of people (about 4 out of 5) who are infected with WNV will not show any symptoms at all. How Does West Nile Virus Spread? ? Infected Mosquitoes. Most often, WNV is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds. Infected mosquitoes can then spread WNV to humans and other animals when they bite. ? Transfusions, Transplants, and Mother-to-Child. In a very small number of cases, WNV also has been spread through blood transfusions, organ transplants, breastfeeding and even during pregnancy from mother to baby. ? Not through touching. WNV is not spread through casual contact such as touching or kissing a person with the virus. How Soon Do Infected People Get Sick? People typically develop symptoms between 3 and 14 days after they are bitten by the infected mosquito. How Is WNV Infection Treated? There is no specific treatment for WNV infection. In cases with milder symptoms, people experience symptoms such as fever and aches that pass on their own, although even healthy people have become sick for several weeks. In more severe cases, people usually need to go to the hospital where they can receive supportive treatment including intravenous fluids, help with breathing and nursing care. What Should I Do if I Think I Have WNV? Milder WNV illness improves on its own, and people do not necessarily need to seek medical attention for this infection though they may choose to do so. If you develop symptoms of severe WNV illness, such as unusually severe headaches or confusion, seek medical attention immediately. Severe WNV illness usually requires hospitalization. Pregnant women and nursing mothers are encouraged to talk to their doctor if they develop symptoms that could be WNV. What Is the Risk of Getting Sick from WNV? People over 50 at higher risk to get severe illness. People over the age of 50 are more likely to develop serious symptoms of WNV if they do get sick and should take special care to avoid mosquito bites. Being outside means you're at risk. The more time you're outdoors, the more time you could be bitten by an infected mosquito. Pay attention to avoiding mosquito bites if you spend a lot of time outside, either working or playing. Risk through medical procedures is very low. All donated blood is checked for WNV before being used. The risk of getting WNV through blood transfusions and organ transplants is very small, and should not prevent people who need surgery from having it. If you have concerns, talk to your doctor. Pregnancy and nursing do not increase risk of becoming infected with WNV. The risk that WNV may present to a fetus or an infant infected through breast milk is still being evaluated. Talk with your care provider if you have concerns. What Else Should I Know? If you find a dead bird: Don't handle the body with your bare hands. Contact your local health department for instructions on reporting and disposing of the body. They may tell you to dispose of the bird after they log your report. |
