Carson/Douglas officials have confirmed the area’s first case of West Nile Virus for 2016.
The victim is a 65-year-old who was reported to have the more serious form of the illness that can impact the brain.
Less than one percent of people who are infected develop serious neurological illness such as inflammation of the brain and surrounding tissues.
Many victims will have no symptoms or mile flue-like symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, nausea or vomiting.
More serious symptoms include high fever, disorientation, tremors, seizures paralysis or coma. Anyone with those types of symptoms should seek medical treatment.
West Nile Virus is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Those insects get the virus by feeding on infected birds.
Carson health officials pointed out that the disease is not spread person to person but only through mosquito bites.
“We conducted an extensive trapping of mosquitoes in the area and they are currently on their way to be tested,” according to the district. “We have also surveyed the area for any standing water. This is also a reminder to check your own area for pots, water troughs, tires, or any other container that may have standing water. Empty the water and/or change the water every 4 days. If any of the tested mosquitoes are positive for WNV, then we will be conducting an extensive ground fogging (adulticiding).”
They say the best way to avoid the disease is to prevent mosquito bites. Health officials say people should use insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535 and oil of lemon eucalyptus and para-menthane-diol products.
When weather permits, they advise long sleeves, pants and socks when outdoors. Since mosquitos can bite through thin clothing, they advise spraying clothes with repellent.
Residents should mosquito-proof their homes by installing or repairing screens. Get rid of standing water in gutters, flowerpots, pet water dishes and birdbaths on a regular basis.
More information is available from www.GetHealthyCarsonCity.org or 887-2190. For Douglas County residents, see http://dcmosquito.wix.com/dcmad
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