Montana public health officials have reported the state’s first human case of West Nile virus (WNV) in Custer County. Health officials at the Richland County Health Department and Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) are cautioning people about the virus and how to minimize mosquito bites.
Since 2001 over 90 percent of past Montana cases have been reported in August and September. As of August 1, 2012, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports 241 WNV cases nation wide, including 4 deaths.
“The best way to prevent West Nile virus is to prevent mosquito bites,” said Julie Brodhead RN “The more time you spend outdoors recreating or working, the higher chance you have of being bitten by an infected mosquito.”
Removing mosquito breeding areas and preventing mosquito bites are two ways to help to prevent being exposed to West Nile virus. The Richland County Health Department and DPHHS recommend these important prevention steps to take around your home and to protect yourself.
Eliminate Mosquito breeding areas:
Empty standing water from flower pots, buckets, and barrels.
Change the water in pet dishes and in bird baths daily.
Drill holes in tire swings so water drains out.
Empty children’s wading pools and store in a position to prevent water accumulation when they aren’t being used.
If standing water cannot be removed, add mosquito-killing products labeled for elimination of mosquito larvae.
Prevent Mosquito bites:
Make sure you have screen protection on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out.
Use insect repellent containing an EPA-registered active ingredient and follow the directions on the package.
Mosquito activity may increase at dusk and dawn. Use repellent and wear long sleeves and pants at these times or stay in a mosquito protected area.
WNV infection develops in about 3 to 14 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. About 80% of persons infected with WNV experience no symptoms. Up to 20% of persons develop a mild illness, called West Nile fever, which usually lasts a few days. For some, West Nile fever can last for several weeks. Symptoms include headache, muscle aches, and low grade fever that resolves without any treatment.
About 1 in 150 infected persons develop dangerous brain infections such as encephalitis or meningitis. Symptoms of these diseases might include headache, rash, high fever, stiff neck, mental confusion, muscle weakness, tremors, convulsions, coma and paralysis. Individuals who develop any of these symptoms should see their healthcare provider immediately.
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