West Nile virus returns as summer concern

It doesn't seem all that long ago, does it, that we were worried about ice storms and power outages.

But now winter has come and gone, and so has spring. Summer activities had been in full swing for a long time before the season officially arrived on Thursday.

With it arrives a whole new set of opportunities for outdoor activities -- and the dangers that accompany them.

Besides the usual safety concerns about boating, sunburn and cycling, there are special concerns again this year.

For one, the Nebraska Health and Human Services System announced that the first cases of West Nile virus were reported; both of males between 26 and 64, one in Lincoln County and another in Platte County.

"People should definitely take precautions against mosquito bites," said Dr. Annette Bredthauer, the state's public health veterinarian, "no matter what area of the state they live in. It only takes one bite to infect you."

The first mosquitoes to test positive for West Nile virus were found in Holt County in north-central Nebraska.

The virus is something new for our state; the first cases arrived here in 2002. That year, there were 174 cases reported, 2,366 in 2003, 57 in 2004, 188 in 2005 and 255 last year.

While fewer than one person in 150 who get bitten by an infected mosquito and become infected will get seriously ill, people over 50 and those with weakened immune systems are especially vulnerable to the disease and are more likely to experience serious consequences, according to state officials.

Symptoms include fever and muscle weakness, and more serious cases may involve encephalitis, including inflammation of the brain, disorientation, convulsions and paralysis.

What can we do?

HHSS recommends applying mosquito repellent containing DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus; wearing a long-sleeved shirt, pants and socks; avoid going out at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active; and eliminating standing water to reduce mosquito breeding sites.

The City of McCook seconds that last motion; crews started spraying for mosquitoes this week, and they'd have a lot less work if property owners would be diligent in draining standing water and eliminating excessive vegetation where mosquitoes thrive.

Mosquitoes aren't the only link in the West Nile virus chain, of course, and the HHSS is collecting and testing blue jays, crows and raptors, the birds most likely to be affected by the virus.

The Red Willow County Health Department is trapping mosquitoes on a regular basis, and none has tested positive for the virus so far. To report a dead bird, contact the department at (308) 345-1790. Residents of other counties can contact the Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department at (308) 345-4223.