West Nile virus (WNV) has made its presence known in Utah once again, with Salt Lake County announcing the state's first human case of the year. According to a report by the Salt Lake County Health Department, the afflicted is recovering at home after being hospitalized earlier this month for a more severe neuroinvasive form of the disease. Health officials believe the individual contracted the virus near the Jordan River sometime in late July.
While maintaining privacy for the patient, public health authorities have shared that mosquito abatement efforts in the county have identified WNV in 24 distinct mosquito samples. Statewide, there have been 108 positive tests for the virus in mosquitoes. "Everyone in the area—regardless of exact location—should take precautions against mosquito bites to avoid exposure to the virus," as per the Salt Lake County Health Department.
Residents can't determine if a mosquito is carrying the disease, making it essential to minimize mosquito bites. Precautions include using EPA-registered mosquito repellents with ingredients like DEET or oil of lemon eucalyptus, wearing long sleeves and pants after dusk, and eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed. At dusk, they recommend draining standing water in yards, keeping gutters clear, and ensuring screens are intact.
WNV symptoms vary from minor to severe, and sadly, up to 1% may develop the neuroinvasive form, which can have long-term effects or be fatal. "Symptoms of WNV infection appear within 2 to 14 days of a mosquito bite and include fever, headache and body aches," as told by Salt Lake County Health Department. Risk is highest for those over 50 or with weakened immune systems. Recovery is focused on symptom relief, and sufferers should seek medical advice if WNV infection is suspected.
