West Nile Outbreak Continues

According to the Michigan Department of Community Health Communicable Disease Division, there is already double the amount of confirmed cases of West Nile this year than all of last year.  Out of the nearly 1000 reported cases this year nationwide as of August 22, 60 came from Michigan including two deaths.  

Wayne County being one of the most affected areas reported 21 confirmed cases, 8 of which were from Detroit including one death.  An unusually hot summer has contributed to the peak of mosquito population, which usually occurs in late August.  The 2012 outbreak of the West Nile Virus is the largest it has been since 1999 according to the Oakland County Health Division. “With these new cases of West Nile virus in Wayne County, it is especially important to take precautionary measures against becoming infected,” Dr. Mouhanad Hammami, Acting Director/Health Officer of the Wayne County Department of Public Health, said in a statement.   

Facts and Tips about West Nile Virus

Mosquitos that are known to carry the WNV are usually most active from dusk till dawn; however they may still be active during the day in wooded shaded areas.  Long sleeve shirts and pants along with insect repellant provide some protection.  Residents are encouraged to follow a few quick and easy steps to avoid encountering the virus.  Keep screens on all windows and doors to keep them out of buildings.  Empty water from common mosquito breeding sites such as buckets unused kiddie pools and old tires.  Wear light colored long sleeve shirts and pants and avoid going outdoors from dusk till dawn.  Finally apply insect repellents that contain the active ingredient DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or other EPA-approved repellents to exposed skin or clothing, always following the manufacturer's directions for use.  Most people bitten by a WNV mosquito will show no symptoms of illness; however others will start to show within 3-15 days.  1in 5 will have mild illness with fever, but about 150 people will become severely ill.  Symptoms of encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) and meningitis (inflammation of the spinal cord and brain linings) include stiff neck, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, muscle weakness, convulsions and paralysis.  A person experiencing any of these symptoms should see their health care provider immediately.