Mosquitoes test positive for West Nile Virus in Webster County

The South Heartland District Health Department (SHDHD) reports that mosquitoes collected in Webster County have tested positive for West Nile Virus.  The mosquitoes were trapped by South Heartland staff on June 25.  These are the first south central Nebraska mosquitoes to test positive for West Nile virus in 2013.  They were collected from within the city limits in Red Cloud.

Health Director Michele Bever reminds people that infected mosquitoes can pass the West Nile virus to humans and other animals including birds and horses. “There have not yet been any laboratory-confirmed cases of West Nile infection reported in humans in Nebraska this season. However, knowing that we have positive mosquitoes here in our area is a reminder to take precautions that will reduce your chances of mosquito bites.”
SHDHD submits mosquitoes for testing from 10-12 sites in Adams and Webster Counties.  “Mosquitoes become infected with West Nile virus by biting infected birds,” said Bever.  “In addition to monitoring West Nile virus in mosquitoes, the health department tracks the number of human cases confirmed with West Nile infection and submits dead birds for testing.”  So far in 2013, no dead birds submitted from Adams, Clay, Nuckolls or Webster counties have tested positive for West Nile virus.
Symptoms of West Nile Virus infection can range from mild to severe.  While 80% of people who are infected with West Nile Virus don’t show any symptoms at all, there is no way to know in advance whether you will develop mild symptoms or a more serious, life altering, or even fatal case of the illness.
About 20% of people who become infected experience mild illness with symptoms such as fever, headache, and rash.  Approximately 1 in every 150 people infected with West Nile Virus will experience more serious symptoms such as high fever, neck stiffness, disorientation, muscle weakness, coma, numbness or paralysis.  West Nile infection can be fatal.
Previously, the highest number of human cases in the South Heartland District (Adams, Clay, Nuckolls, Webster Counties) was in the 2003 season, when 179 laboratory-confirmed cases of West Nile infection were reported.
Desiree Rinne, Health Educator for South Heartland, reminds people to practice the Four “D”s for protection against West Nile infection:

• Dusk to Dawn – stay inside when mosquitoes are most active
• Dress to protect – by wearing long sleeves and pants when mosquitoes are active.
• DEET – Use an approved mosquito-repellent, such as one containing DEET
• Drain standing water around your property to discourage mosquitoes from breeding.

For more information, or to request materials or a presentation about West Nile Virus and West Nile Virus surveillance activities, go to www.southheartlandhealth.org or contact South Heartland District Health Department at 402-462-6211 or toll-free at 877-238-7595.