West Nile Virus Found in Donated Blood

So far, no cases of West Nile virus infection have been reported in SC. State health officials previously confirmed two cases of the virus in Colorado.

The number of human WNV cases in Maryland has varied over time.

Humans may have balked at the recent run of hot, humid weather, but mosquitoes thrived in the sweaty temps – including a species associated with the feared mosquito-borne Zika virus. The case was reported in a resident of Harrison County who just came back from Puerto Rico. Death is very rare.

Pregnant women or women planning to become pregnant are urged to take extra precautions and to consider alternative travel plans avoiding areas with Zika virus. Zika virus is more common in the Caribbean, South and Central America, Africa, Asia and the Pacific islands. This makes Charleston the ideal breeding ground for mosquitos.

Officials at the base are conducting additional mosquito surveillance in the area, according to Monday’s statement.

This is the 17th case of Zika in the state of MS to date.

Eleven of the cases involve risky infections of the nervous system, said Deputy state epidemiologist Dr. Paul Byers.

The Health Department reminds New Yorkers that Zika has not been found in any mosquitos in the city.

Those that do, usually experience mild flu-like symptoms like fever, headache, skin rash or muscle aches. In 2015, MS had 38 cases and one death. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends use of insect repellents containing DEET and Picaridin.

Dr. Barbara Yaffe, Toronto’s Acting Medical Officer of Health asked Toronto residents to dispose of stagnant water to ward off the chances of breeding of mosquitoes.

Wear loose, light-colored, long clothing to cover the arms and legs when outdoors.