The Douglas County Health Department has confirmed that a resident has died from the West Nile Virus.
Officials say the person was over 65 years of age, had been hospitalized and suffered from underlying health conditions.
Health Director Dr. Adi Pour says this year is shaping up to be much worse than 2017. “The number of West Nile cases in Douglas County is up significantly from last year. Last week we had more cases confirmed than we saw all of last year.”
There have been eleven cases in Douglas County so far this year, including the ten confirmed in the last week. Compared to seven for all last year, Pour says there is a need for increased awareness and protection. “The best way to avoid getting sick is to protect yourself from mosquito bites. We cannot predict how many West Nile cases we will have this year, but we do know how you can reduce the threat.”
Here are some ways to help prevent mosquito bites:
- Apply a mosquito repellant that includes DEET. The CDC also has approved picaridin and oil of lemon eucalyptus. The CDC generally recommends that when using sunscreen and repellant, the sunscreen should be applied first. Products that combine sunscreen and repellant are not recommended.
- Wear loose, long-sleeved shirts, plus pants, shoes and socks when outdoors.
- Avoid outdoor activity around dawn and dusk when mosquitos are most active.
- Remove standing water or report it to the Health Department for treatment.
Most people infected with West Nile virus have no symptoms. About one in five will develop a fever with head and body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Fatigue and weakness can last for weeks but these individuals generally will fully recover. Roughly one in 150 who is infected develop a severe illness affecting the central nervous system such as encephalitis or meningitis.