First Human Case Of West Nile Virus In Broome County
BINGHAMTON, NY - The New York State Department of Health reported a presumptive diagnosis of West Nile virus in a Broome County resident. A 19-year old male became ill in early September with fever, headache, rash and muscle weakness and pain. He has been discharged from the hospital and is recovering at home.
Larval and mosquito counts have been relatively low this year due to dry weather, however individuals are still at risk as long as mosquitoes are present. The risk of becoming seriously ill with West Nile virus infection is higher for individuals age 50 or over. This does not mean that people of all ages cannot become infected but they are less likely to become seriously ill. During the 1999 outbreak in New York City a 5-year old and 15-year old were diagnosed with West Nile virus infection. Since individuals of all ages can become ill it is important for everyone to take reasonable precautions to avoid exposure to mosquitoes. Individuals infected with West Nile virus often have no symptoms, but it can cause flu-like symptoms. In serious cases, it can lead to central nervous system infection. Most people, who are bitten, even by infected mosquitoes, do not get sick.
County Executive Jeffrey P. Kraham said, "We know that West Nile virus is circulating widely in New York State and the nation. Based on previous history of West Nile virus in New York State, human cases were most likely seen in September." Mr. Kraham emphasized the need for residents to continue to protect themselves from mosquito bites through September and even into October. Mosquitoes will remain active when the temperature is above 60 degrees. Personal protective measures include wearing shoes and socks, long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, and consider the use of mosquito repellent (according to directions) when outside for a long period of time, especially in the late afternoon and from dusk to dawn.
Broome County Public Health Director Claudia A. Edwards stated that "Mosquito breeding sites in residential areas are associated with an increased risk for acquiring the disease." Ms. Edwards urged Broome County residents to remain alert for possible breeding habitats around their homes and businesses. "Broome County residents are important partners in protecting the health of our community," said Ms. Edwards. "Cleaning up any standing water continues to be an important control measure." Public Health Director Edwards stated that "The Broome County Health Department will continue an aggressive program of larval and adult mosquito surveillance."
Please continue to report dead crows to the Broome County Health Department Monday through Friday during regular business hours, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at 607.778.2887. Residents can listen to recorded information about West Nile virus 24 hours a day by dialing 607.778.3911, option 1. In addition, West Nile virus information can be found on the Broome County Website at www.gobroomecounty.com/hd/.
CONTACT:
Dr. Alan Wabrek, Medical Director,
Broome County Health Department, 607.778.2802
Robert Denz, Environmental Health Services Division Director,
Broome County Health Department, 607.778.2802
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