Idaho’s first 2016 human case of West Nile virus (WNV) infection was confirmed in an Elmore County woman in southern Idaho. The woman, in her 30s, is recovering at home from West Nile fever.
Besides the Elmore County human infection, eight other Idaho counties have detected WNV in mosquitoes since June 28th. An infection of a horse from Payette County also was reported this week.
“West Nile activity has ramped up significantly during the last few weeks across southern Idaho, so people are strongly encouraged to fight the bite of mosquitoes to protect themselves and their families,” says Dr. Leslie Tengelsen, state public health veterinarian. “This is a good warning for all of us to take protective measures, including wearing insect repellent and reducing mosquito habitat around our homes.” Continue reading “Elmore County reports first human case of West Nile Virus infection this summer”
Mosquito abatement districts are surveying and treating for the pesky little blood-suckers earlier than usual because spring has been so mild. So now is a good time to go over the precautions you should take to protect yourself and your family from mosquito bites. Zika virus has been in the news a lot lately, but in Idaho and the rest of the United States, we worry the most about mosquitoes transmitting West Nile virus. This early in the season, we’ve had no reports of West Nile in mosquitoes, humans or horses. Last season in Idaho, 13 people and four horses were infected in six counties. Fortunately, there were no deaths.
DHW Voice 