Time to guard against West Nile Virus

Sisters area residents should start now to protect themselves against a potential onslaught of West Nile Virus.

“We’re trying to get people to protect themselves now because mosquitoes are out,” said Shannon Dames, Communicable Disease Coordinator for Deschutes County Health Department.

Dames said people should begin protecting themselves against West Nile Virus now through mid-summer when mosquitoes have been out longer and the virus is more rampant in the birdpopulation.

West Nile Virus (WNV) is a potentially serious illness which affects the central nervous system. WNV is transmitted to people and animals by infected mosquitoes. Only certain species of mosquitoes carry the virus and very few mosquitoes are actually infected. A mosquito first acquires the infection by feeding on a bird with the virus in its blood. Then the mosquito transmits the virus by biting animals or humans.

So far, WNV has been detected in humans in only two counties in Oregon: Jackson and Malheur. However, Dames said, most Oregon counties have found infected birds and horses.

“Typically after a positive bird has been found, a human case will follow six to eight weeks after,” said Dames. The characteristics of WNV are well known because it began on the East Coast in 1999 and has been spreading west.

In 2004, there were 2,470 confirmed cases of WNV in humans in the U.S. which resulted in 88 deaths.

Most people infected with WNV show no symptoms while some show mild flu-like symptoms including fever, body aches, and nausea. Young children and adults over 50 are at higher risk of getting sick. Spending time outside also increases the risk.

The best way to protect yourself is to avoid mosquito bites. Stay indoors at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.

While outdoors, wear insect repellent. Eliminate mosquito breeding areas around your house by removing standing water. Change water in pet dishes and bird baths at least once a week.

An estimated one in 150 people infected will require hospitalization. However, horses have a much higher chance of dying from WNV with 33 percent of infected horses dying.

“They should be vaccinated prior to now but it’s never too late,” added Dames. She said horses need a series of two shots, then yearly boosters to be protected.