Health officials are urging the public to take precautionary measures, including using bug spray, to combat mosquitos as the West Nile virus season begins with an unprecedented start. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there have been 48 confirmed cases by June 30, with 38 of these being severe. Historically, the CDC reports an average of 10 cases by this time of year.
Federal health authorities noted that the virus has been detected in 23 states, marking a record high in 10 years. Dr. Erin Staples, a CDC expert on insect-borne diseases, stressed the need for caution as gatherings take place outdoors for Independence Day celebrations. She advised families to protect themselves from mosquito bites when enjoying outdoor activities.
The majority of cases have occurred in Arizona, with 32 cases in total and 29 in Maricopa County, which includes Phoenix. There have been four fatalities in the county related to the virus this year. Local officials recommend using insect repellent containing DEET, repairing broken window screens, and eliminating standing water, a common breeding ground for mosquitoes. Melissa Kretschmer from the county health department highlighted the importance of removing breeding sources, even those as small as an overturned bottle cap.
The CDC suggests wearing long, loose-fitting clothing outdoors and minimizing outdoor activities during dusk and dawn, when mosquito activity peaks. West Nile virus was first identified in the United States in 1999, originating in New York, and has since spread nationwide. It reached its highest incidence in 2003, with nearly 10,000 cases reported.
Many individuals may be unknowingly infected due to the absence of symptoms or mild symptoms like headaches, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and rashes. Severe cases can involve dangerous inflammation of the brain or spinal cord, affecting the central nervous system. Those over 60 or with existing medical conditions or compromised immune systems are especially vulnerable.
Over the past decade, there has been an average of 2,000 reported cases annually, which includes 1,200 serious neurological conditions and about 100 fatalities each year.
Note: The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives contributions from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Department of Science Education and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP retains full responsibility for the content.
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