3rd case of West Nile virus confirmed in Oklahoma

Primarily causing infections in birds, West Nile virus can spread to people and other animals through mosquito bites.

Based on a nationwide experience in Illinois over the previous 14 years of WNV presence, the peak period for the virus transition, particularly in humans, has been from mid-July to mid-October. Even though there are no confirmed mosquitoes carrying West Nile in our region, it’s always good to take smart protective measures when possible.

Boze urges residents to remove any standing water near their homes and turn off their sprinklers to avoid mosquito pools.

In 2014, as of early October, 11 of the 79 documented cases of human West Nile virus infections in Colorado were reported in Larimer County.

The record number of deaths was 15 back in 2012.

Mosquitoes also can manage to breed inside PVC pipe that’s attached to downspouts in an effort to drain water away from the house, the owner of Ben Morgenstern LLC/ohiogutterman.com added.

West Nile virus was detected in a mosquito sample that was collected in Palm Desert, officials said.

Insect repellent does a great job at protecting from bites, as does avoiding being outdoors during either dusk or dawn. “However, it is important for residents to take the necessary precautions”. Wear long-sleeved shirts and full-length trousers. Of those who become sick, most people will have a mild illness called West Nile fever, which lasts two to 10 days. One crucial piece of advice is often ignored: Dump standing water out of containers.

Truck-mounted spraying of insecticides is underway throughout West Nile season.

Experts recommend using mosquito repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, lemon eucalyptus oil or IR3535. The most vulnerable are those over 50 or with weakened immune systems. Luckily, most infected people don’t develop symptoms and never knew that they were bitten by an infected mosquito.

Owners of ponds can install an aerator to discourage mosquito infestations, or use residential-strength larvaecides typically found at big box stores, health officials said. Severe symptoms may include headache, high fever, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, paralysis and coma.