Wyoming reports first case of human West Nile Virus in 2018

The Wyoming Department of Health is reporting the state’s first confirmed case of West Nile virus. It involves an adult in Fremont County.

The virus is spread by mosquitoes. When the insects feed on birds and then bite people,animals or other birds.

According to the department, most people infected with WNV don’t have symptoms. Among those who become ill, symptoms include fever, headache, body aches, skin rash and swollen lymph nodes. A very small number develop West Nile neuroinvasive disease with symptoms such as severe headache, fever, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions and paralysis.

“Wyoming residents should remember to take steps to protect themselves and their families from mosquito bites,” said Dr. Alexia Harrist, state health officer and state epidemiologist with WDH.

She said the number of reported cases of WNV has varied widely from year to year. “It’s possible that many people who are ill due to WNV are not getting tested for the disease, which affects reporting and makes it difficult for us to know the true number of cases,” Harrist said.

The “5 D’s” of West Nile virus prevention include:

1) DAWN and 2) DUSK – Mosquitos prefer to feed at dawn or dusk, so avoid spending time outside during these times.

3) DRESS – Wear shoes, socks, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt outdoors. Clothing should be light-colored and made of tightly woven materials.

4) DRAIN – Mosquitos breed in shallow, stagnant water. Reduce the amount of standing water by draining and/or removing.

5) DEET – Use an insect repellent containing DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide). When using DEET, be sure to read and follow label instructions. Other insect repellents such as Picaridin (KBR 3023) or oil of lemon eucalyptus can also be effective.