PEAK SEASON FOR WEST NILE VIRUS OCCURS FROM MID-AUGUST - EARLY SEPTEMBER West Nile virus (WNV) is an infection transmitted by mosquitoes. The mosquito most common for transmitting this virus is one that is widespread throughout the Grand Forks region. This mosquito does not discriminate. People of all ages are susceptible to WNV infection, but the elderly are at higher risk for developing the more severe form of this disease (neuroinvasive illness). Children infected with WNV generally show no symptoms or may have a mild fever.
Number of Cases
North Dakota - West Nile Virus Cases By Date 2002 - 2014
Weekly Data 2002 - 2014 Total Human Cases in ND - 1,534
Risk factors for West Nile virus: • Time of year – The majority of WNV cases occur from July – September. • Geographic region – The Dakotas have reported some of the highest cases per capita in the United States. • Time spent outdoors not wearing protective clothing and mosquito repellent – If you work or spend a lot of time outdoors (golfing, gardening, hunting, etc.), you’re at a higher risk of being bitten by mosquitoes. • Proximity – If you live in an area where WNV has already been identified or near mosquito larval habitat. • If you have a weakened immune system.
West Nile Virus Symptoms:
• Most people (70-80%) infected with West Nile virus will not develop any symptoms, or the symptoms may be so mild that they won’t seek medical care. • About 20% of the people infected will have a fever with other flu-like symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Most of the people with this type of WNV will have a complete recovery, but fatigue and weakness may last for weeks or months. • Less than 1% of the people infected will develop the more severe neurological form of this illness. The symptoms of neurologic illness can include headache, high fever, neck stiffness, disorientation, coma, tremors, seazures, or paralysis. • Serious illness may occur in people of any age but people over 60 have the greatest risk for the severe form of this illness. People with certain medical conditions, such as cancer, diabetes, hypertension, kidney disease, and people who have received organ transplants are also at a greater risk of getting the severe form of this disease. • Recovery from the severe form of this disease may take several weeks or months and some of the neurologic effects may be permanent. This disease is fatal for about 10% of the people who develop neurologic infection.
West Nile Virus Treatment:
• No vaccine or specific antiviral treatments for West Nile virus infection are available. • Over-the-counter pain relievers can be used to reduce fever and relieve some symptoms • In severe cases, patients often need to be hospitalized to receive supportive treatment, such as intravenous fluids, pain medication, and nursing care.
WEST NILE VIRUS WARNING!!
The best way to prevent West Nile virus infection is to avoid mosquito bites. • Use mosquito-repellent products containing DEET. • Wear long sleeves and pants. • Eliminate any standing water from your property, such as trash bins, plant saucers, rain gutters, buckets, etc.
If you have any questions or concerns relating to mosquito control visit our website at www.gfmosquito.com