So far this year, only 25 cases have been reported in the United States.
Several US health authorities have said they have detected the West Nile virus in mosquito samples.
Although the actual number of West Nile virus cases is significantly lower than this time last year, experts are urging people to take precautions.
On Monday, the Cape May County Health Department in southern New Jersey press release They reported that seven mosquito samples taken in June and July tested positive for West Nile virus.
Denton County, Texas, Public Health Department report Health officials announced Monday that five West Nile virus-positive mosquitoes were captured in unincorporated areas of Denton County and said they will be spraying those locations for treatment.
The Suffolk County, New York Department of Health Announced On Monday, the agency said 16 mosquito samples tested positive for West Nile virus, bringing the season total to 32. data A study by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene found West Nile virus-positive mosquitoes in all five boroughs.
“Confirmation of West Nile virus in mosquito samples indicates the presence of West Nile virus in our area,” Suffolk County Health Officer Dr. Gregson Piggott said in a press release. “While there is no need to worry, we ask residents to cooperate with efforts to reduce exposure to West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne diseases.”
So far, only 25 cases of West Nile virus have been reported in 14 states. data The figures were released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, down from 117 reported during the same period last year.
West Nile virus is the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the continental United States. CDCIt was first reported in the Western Hemisphere after a patient was diagnosed in New York City in the summer of 1999.
Mosquitoes usually become infected with the virus by feeding on infected birds, and then Spread the word Federal health agencies have said the virus can infect humans and other animals, and cases usually start to rise in July, with the highest numbers occurring in August and September. CDC Data show.
Most people infected with the virus SymptomsHowever, about one in five people will experience symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and rash in addition to fever. Most symptoms will go away, but feelings of weakness and fatigue may last for weeks or months.
About 1 in 150 people become seriously ill, developing encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord), both of which can be fatal. According to the CDC, 11 of the 25 cases so far this year have led to neuroinvasive disease.
There is currently no vaccine or specific treatment for West Nile virus. The CDC recommends rest, staying hydrated, and using over-the-counter medications. Severely ill people often need to be hospitalized for supportive care, such as intravenous fluids.
To Best protection To protect yourself from mosquito bites, the CDC recommends using insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants, applying insect repellent to clothing and equipment, and taking other measures to control mosquitoes. This last measure includes installing screens on windows and doors, using air conditioning, and emptying containers of standing water.
