Earlier this month the first positive test for West Nile Virus in mosquitoes in 2015 was confirmed in Erie County. Here's what you need to know about WNV.

WHAT IS WNV?

West Nile Virus is a mosquito-borne illness that is transmitted through a bite from an infected mosquito.

CAN IT BE VACCINATED AGAINST?

There are no medications to treat or vaccines to prevent WNV infection.

ARE THERE ALWAYS SYMPTOMS?
  • The majority of infected will not have any symptoms.
  • Approximately one in five people will develop a fever with other symptoms.
  • Less than 1% of infected people will develop a serious, sometimes fatal, neurological illness.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS

With West Nile fever may come fever, headache and body aches, and occasionally a skin rash and swollen lymph glands, according to the New York State Department of Health. 

Severe infection (West Nile encephalitis or meningitis) can include headache, high fever, neck stiffness, muscle weakness, stupor, disorientation, tremors, convulsions, paralysis and coma. One in 150 persons infected with the WNV will develop the more severe form of the disease.

HOW FAST DO SYMPTOMS OCCUR

Usually, symptoms occur from 3 to 14 days after being bitten.

HOW TO REDUCE THE RISK

Via the Erie County Department of Health:

  • Eliminate local mosquito breeding sites, such as standing water. Do not leave standing water for longer than two days before dumping it out, change water in birdbaths and planter bases, clean clogged gutters.
  • Reduce exposure to mosquitoes.
  • Limit outdoor activities during times of high mosquito activity, dusk and dawn.
  • Use mosquito traps, electrocutors (bug zappers), ultrasonic repellers, and other devices.
  • Use mosquito nets/screens for baby strollers/playpens, long sleeves/pants, socks/shoes, and hats.
  • Use repellant with a concentration of 25 to 30 percent DEET during outdoor activities.

CAN PETS GET INFECTED?

Pets occasionally get WNV from mosquito bites, but seldom get sick.

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