The Wayne County Department of Public Health has confirmed two cases of West Nile virus (WNV) in Wayne County. Both individuals, an adult female and male, were hospitalized with WNV meningitis. They have since been treated and discharged.
West Nile virus is a virus that is transmitted by mosquitoes. The majority of individuals infected with West Nile virus experience no symptoms. A minority of patients develop symptoms that may include a fever, rash, headache, joint pain, muscle aches, GI symptoms, fatigue and weakness. Less than 1% of cases develop neuroinvasive WNV disease, which typically presents as meningitis, encephalitis and/or paralysis.
Currently, there is no vaccine for humans against West Nile virus.
“With these new cases of West Nile virus in Wayne County, it is especially important to take precautionary measures against becoming infected,” said Dr. Mouhanad Hammami, Acting Director/Health Officer, Wayne County Department of Public Health.
The unseasonably hot summer has contributed to an earlier development in mosquito populations which typically peak in late August, he added.
The best way to avoid WNV is to prevent mosquito bites:
- 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 containers, flower pots, buckets, barrels or children’s wading pools and tire swings.
Wayne County Public Health expects to see continued WNV activity throughout the summer. Persons experiencing symptoms suggestive of WNV should see their health care provider promptly.
For more information, call the Wayne County West Nile virus Hotline at 734.727.7445, or visit http://www.waynecounty.com/hhs_ph_westnile.htm or www.cdc.gov.
Residents who have additional questions, should call the Wayne County Environmental Health Division at 734.727.7400.
Source: Wayne County Health and Human Services Department
