Polk County Resident Is Minnesota's First Confirmed West Nile Virus Case Of Year

July 13, 2007 -- A Polk County woman is Minnesota's first laboratory confirmed case of West Nile virus of the year. She developed meningitis in late June after becoming infected with the virus and is recovering. Last year, 65 cases were reported in Minnesota, with 3 deaths.

Minnesota has entered the period of highest risk for West Nile virus in humans, according to David Neitzel, an epidemiologist with the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH). “Mid-July through September is the time of year when you’re most likely to be bitten by an infected mosquito,” he said.

Article continues below...

While WNV can occur anywhere in the state, western and central Minnesota are at highest risk for the disease because the type of mosquito that carries the disease in Minnesota is most abundant in open, agricultural areas, especially this year. Also, the older you are, the higher your risk of developing serious forms of illness from the virus.

West Nile virus is transmitted through the bite of a mosquito. It cannot be spread by contact with an infected person.

It’s very important that everybody take measures to protect themselves from mosquito bites. To reduce your risk of being bitten:

* While outside among mosquitoes, use a good mosquito repellent, such as those containing no more than 30 percent of the active ingredient DEET. Products containing the active ingredient picaridin are also now commercially available.
* Minimize outdoor activities at dusk or dawn, when mosquitoes are most actively feeding.
* Wear long-sleeve shirts and long pants if you have to spend time in an area where mosquitoes are biting.
* Eliminate mosquito breeding sites on and around your property – including items such as old tires, buckets, clogged rain gutters, cans, other containers, and anything else that can hold a small amount of water. Change the water in birdbaths and horse troughs at least weekly.

The risk of severe illness from West Nile virus is very low, according to Neitzel. Most people bitten by an infected mosquito will experience a less severe form of the disease or no symptoms at all. Fewer than 1 out of every 150 people who become infected will become severely ill with encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain.

The elderly are at greatest risk of developing encephalitis from a West Nile infection. The fatality rate for those who develop encephalitis is around 10 percent.

Symptoms of the illness usually show up 2 to 15 days after being bitten. They can include headache, high fever, muscle weakness, stiff neck, disorientation, tremors, convulsions, paralysis and coma. People who suspect that they may have West Nile should see a physician.

Information on West Nile and other forms of mosquito-related encephalitis are available on the MDH Web site at www.health.state.mn.us. People who have questions about West Nile virus can also call MDH at 651-201-5414 in the Twin Cities area, or 1-877-676-5414 in greater Minnesota, between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Source: Minnesota Department of Health