Residents of Kentucky advised to implement safety measures following official confirmation of six human West Nile virus cases within the state
As summer transitions into fall, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is warning the public about the ongoing threat of the West Nile virus.
The mosquito season for West Nile virus typically starts in the summer and continues through fall, usually from June through October. During this period, the CDC advises taking precautions to protect against mosquito bites, as West Nile virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito.
Symptoms of West Nile virus infection include fever, headache, body aches, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. In some cases, the virus can cause severe illness that affects the central nervous system, leading to hospitalization or even death. Symptoms of severe West Nile illness can include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness, or paralysis. Recovery from severe West Nile illness can take several weeks or months, and some effects may be permanent.
According to the CDC, as of early September, a total of 986 West Nile cases have been reported across 40 states in the U.S. Among these cases, six have been reported in Kentucky, in Anderson, Daviess, Fayette, Franklin, Jefferson, and McCreary counties. In addition, non-human cases have been confirmed in Bourbon, Boyle, Grayson, Jessamine, Lewis, and Mercer counties.
The U.S. city with the most reported human West Nile virus infections since the outbreak began this year is New York, contributing to the total of over 770 cases nationwide. Of these cases, 490 have been severe.
To protect against West Nile, the CDC recommends preventing mosquito bites as the best way to protect against the virus. This includes wearing long, loose-fitting shirts and pants, using an insect repellent registered with the Environmental Protection Agency, and using screens on windows and doors or air conditioning to keep mosquitoes outside. The CDC also advises avoiding being outside between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes that spread West Nile virus are most active.
It is important to note that no licensed vaccines or medicines are available to prevent or treat West Nile virus disease in people. For more information about West Nile, visit www.cdc.gov.
As the number of people diagnosed with West Nile typically peaks in late August to early September, it is crucial to remain vigilant and take precautions to protect against mosquito bites. By following these simple steps, you can help reduce your risk of contracting the West Nile virus and stay healthy this season.
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