| August 2, 2007 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Wyoming West Nile Virus Case Count Up to SevenAn elderly Goshen County resident has died as a result of West Nile virus, according to the Wyoming Department of Health. The Goshen County man died Tuesday. He had been hospitalized with West Nile neuroinvasive disease. Eleven cases of West Nile virus have been reported to the Wyoming Department of Health this year. Of these, five have been from Fremont County, two from Crook County, two from Campbell County, one from Natrona County and one from Goshen County. Symptoms of West Nile neuroinvasive disease include severe headache, fever, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions and paralysis. Most people who develop clinical illness as a result of West Nile virus experience West Nile fever with symptoms including fever, headache, body aches, skin rash and swollen lymph nodes. “Wyoming residents need to recognize that West Nile infection can be a very serious health threat, particularly for older residents,” said Dr. Tracy Murphy, state epidemiologist with the Wyoming Department of Health. “Anyone experiencing West Nile virus-related symptoms should contact a medical professional, so they may receive testing and care if needed,” Murphy said. “Everyone should do what they can to protect themselves and others from mosquito bites.” Mosquitoes spread West Nile virus after they feed on infected birds and then bite people, other birds and animals. The “5 D’s” of preventing West Nile Virus are: 3) DRESS - Wear shoes, socks, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt when spending time outdoors or when mosquitoes are most active. Clothing should be light-colored and made of tightly woven materials to keep mosquitoes away from the skin. 4) DRAIN - Mosquitos breed in shallow, stagnant water. Reduce the amount of standing water in or near your property by draining and/or removing it. 5) DEET - Use an insect repellent containing DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide). Products containing DEET should be used properly. When using DEET, be sure to read and follow the instructions on the product’s label. Avoid excessive use or over-application. In most circumstances, products with 10 to 35 percent DEET provide adequate protection for adults. Spray clothing with repellents containing permethrin or DEET because mosquitoes can bite through thin clothing. Permethrin should not be used on bare skin. Another insect repellent, Picaridin (KBR 3023), is also highly effective. More information can be found on the Wyoming Department of Health’s West Nile virus website: www.badskeeter.org or by calling 1-877-WYO-BITE. - end - |
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