West Nile virus cases real threat
While there have been no confirmed cases of the West Nile Virus in humans in Red Willow County, the possibility is very real that there could be.
There have been four officially confirmed cases of the virus in Nebraska, and several others not officially counted.
Margie Swanda of the Red Willow County Health Department has told the Gazette results from mosquito testing sites in the area have come back positive for West Nile Virus.
Swanda said there are things residents can do to protect themselves from the virus.
First of all, she said, apply a mosquito repellent containing DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide) when involved in outdoor activities. Wearing long sleeve shirts and long pants will also help avoid the bites.
Residents should avoid activities at dawn and dusk as much as possible. Mosquitoes are most active at these times.
Most people infected with West Nile Virus experience no symptoms. However, some people will experience mild symptoms including fever, headache and body aches, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes swollen lymph glands or a skin rash on the chest, stomach and back. These symptoms typically last a few days.
About one in 150 people infected with WNV will develop severe illness. The severe symptoms can include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness and paralysis. These symptoms may last several weeks, and neurological effects may be permanent.
Most people who experience the milder symptoms do not require medical treatment as the symptoms will normally improve on their own. Anyone with unusually severe headaches or confusion should seek medical attention immediately. Severe WNV illness usually requires hospitalization. Pregnant women and nursing mothers are encouraged to talk to their doctor if they develop symptoms that could be WNV.