Two cases of West Nile Virus have been reported in Broome County. Since the year 2000, 10 cases are on record. West Nile is transmitted by mosquito and the Broome County Health department is reminding residents to take protective measures to avoid mosquito bites. Most people infected with WNV do not become ill. If illness develops, symptoms usually occur 3 to 15 days after the bite from an infected mosquito. People with mild cases disease may develop fever, headache, body aches and occasionally a skin rash or swollen glands. People with severe cases usually have a sudden onset of headache, high fever, neck stiffness, muscle weakness, altered mental status, tremors, convulsions, paralysis, inflammation of the brain or the membranes of the brain and spinal cord or coma. In cases of severe disease, supportive therapy may include hospitalization, respiratory support, intravenous fluids, and treatment of other infections that develop. People with WNV illness usually recover completely; death is extremely rare.
For a list of recommendations, please visit the WEBO web site – www.myhometowntoday.com.
