(Salt Lake City, UT) – Public health officials from the Utah Department
of Health (UDOH) and the Bear River Health Department (BRHD) verified the
state’s first human case of West Nile virus (WNV) for 2012. The individual is a
resident of Box Elder County, between the age of 18 and 39.
To date, there has been limited activity involving
positive mosquito pools detected in northern Utah, but that doesn’t mean it
isn’t here. The best way to reduce your risk of contracting West Nile virus is
to take personal precautions to avoid mosquito bites. UDOH epidemiologist JoDee
Baker says, "Prevention is simple and the disease can be severe, so it just
makes sense to take precautions."
West Nile virus is transmitted through the bite of an
infected mosquito, but not all mosquitoes carry the virus. The mosquitoes that
do carry the virus are typically out from dusk to dawn. So, when you’re outdoors
during those times, it’s important to wear mosquito repellent that contains DEET
or Picaridin, as well as long sleeved shirts and long pants. For adults and
children between the ages of 2 months and 12 years old, use repellents
containing up to 30% DEET. Remove any puddles or standing water around your home
where mosquitoes can breed, including birdbaths, swimming pools, old tires and
plant containers.
West Nile virus infections in humans are rare, but they
do occur. Since 2003, there have been 327 verified
human cases of West Nile virus in Utah, as well as eight deaths. Symptoms of the
severe form of West Nile virus include: high fever, severe headache and stiff
neck, disorientation and confusion. If you are experiencing symptoms of West
Nile virus, please contact your health care provider immediately.
West Nile virus surveillance in Utah is underway and will
continue throughout the summer and fall. For more information, call your local
health department or visit www.health.utah.gov/wnv. Throughout the
WNV season, the UDOH Web page will be updated each Wednesday with available
detection information.
Media Contact:
Becky Ward
Health Educator
Work: 801-538-6682
Cell: 801-647-5421
Health Educator
Work: 801-538-6682
Cell: 801-647-5421
