Reported West Nile Virus cases in North Dakota highlight risk

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Vernita Murray
  • 319th Medical Operations Squadron
GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  In the past week, officials in North Dakota have reported several human cases of West Nile Virus.

While no human cases of West Nile have been diagnosed on Grand Forks Air Force Base or in the surrounding Grand Forks County, one horse was diagnosed with the virus in the county last week.

West Nile Virus is an infection transmitted by mosquitoes. Most infections occur during warm weather when mosquito populations are active. Most people bitten by an infected mosquito do not experience any signs or symptoms or may experience only minor ones, such as fever and mild headache. These mild symptoms usually go away without medical attention.

In rare cases, some people may develop severe signs and symptoms such as a severe headache, disorientation or sudden weakness. Those most at risk are people ages 50 and older and those with compromised immune symptoms.

The best way to prevent West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne illnesses is to avoid exposure to mosquitoes and eliminate mosquito-breeding sites. Eliminate standing water by unclogging roof gutters, changing water in birdbaths at least weekly, and removing old tires or any unused containers that might hold water and serve as a breeding place for mosquitoes.

To reduce your own exposure to mosquitoes, avoid unnecessary outdoor activity when mosquitoes are most prevalent, such as dawn, dusk and early evening. Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when going into mosquito-infested areas. Apply an Environmental Protection Agency-approved mosquito repellent with DEET to your skin and clothing, closely following the application directions on the product.

Mosquito repellents with DEET should not be applied to babies less than 3 months old.

When applying these products to children, spray the product on your own hands first and then apply the product to the child with your hands. Avoid treating the face and hands of children. When outside, cover your infant's stroller or playpen with mosquito netting.

More information on West Nile Virus is available at www.ndhealth.gov/wnv/.