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2007-8-31 17:40:01 |
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The Mississippi Department of Health on May 11 reported a new case of West Nile Virus (WN) in Scott County; raising the total to three in the state. Two early cases of West Nile virus, the first in 2007 for the state, were reported on April 12 in Lawrence County and Walthall County. But no death resulted from the three infections. "Although West Nile virus is most prevalent in mid- to late summer, it can occur throughout the year," said Interim State Epidemiologist Dr. Lovetta Brown. "Personal protection is the key to avoiding mosquito bites. Take steps to keep the areas in and around homes mosquito-free." Infection by West Nile virus is one of the major three illnesses that can be caused by a mosquito bite if the mosquito is infected. Other two illnesses are St. Louis encephalitis and Eastern Equine encephalitis. About 80 percent of people who are infected with West Nile virus will show no symptoms. The remaining 20 percent may experience a range of flu-like symptoms. The symptoms resulting from West Nile virus infection are often mild or flu-like and may include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, a rash, muscle weakness or swollen lymph nodes. In severe cases, however, the infection can cause encephalitis or meningitis, which can lead to paralysis, coma and even death. The state health officials suggest Mississippians to take precautions as listed below to prevent West Nile virus infection through mosquito bites. Remove sources of standing water; Avoid mosquito-prone areas, especially at night when mosquito activity is highest; Wear protective clothing (such as long-sleeved shirts and pants) when in mosquito-prone areas when possible; and Apply a mosquito repellent according to the manufacturer's instructions. The following are the common questions and answers about the West Nile Virus infection cited from the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 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. |
