The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare has released the following press release.
DULL FALLS The first West Nile virus-related death in Idaho this year was found to have occurred in a Twin Falls County citizen who was over 65. The bite of an infected mosquito transmits the West Nile virus.
Seven counties in southern Idaho and nearby Malheur County, Oregon, have reported West Nile virus activity in mosquitoes this year. Not every county gathers and examines mosquitoes.
Deputy State Epidemiologist Dr. Kathy Turner stated, “We strongly encourage Idahoans to fight the bite of mosquitoes to protect themselves and their families.” We should all take precautions against mosquito bites in light of this awful West Nile virus mortality. Use insect repellant outside and dress in long sleeves and pants. Reduce the amount of standing water in your yard and around your house where mosquitoes can lay their eggs.
The majority of West Nile virus infections do not cause any symptoms. Fever and other symptoms like headache, body aches, joint pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, swollen lymph nodes, or rash are experienced by around one in five individuals infected with the West Nile virus. Approximately 10% of those with severe West Nile virus die, and 1 in 150 infected individuals suffer from severe brain and spinal cord sickness that requires hospitalization.
Severe disease is more likely to strike older folks and those with specific medical issues. It may take weeks or months to recover from a serious illness. Some consequences may last a lifetime. If you suspect that you may have West Nile virus, consult your doctor.
Avoid mosquitoes to prevent contracting the West Nile virus, especially between the hours of twilight and dawn when they are most active. Furthermore, everyone ought to:
- Wear loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and pants when outdoors.
- Apply EPA-registered insect repellents to exposed skin. Carefully follow instructions on the product label, especially for children.
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Find the repellent that is right for you by using EPA s search tool at
https://www.epa.gov/insect-repellents/find-repellent-right-you
or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention s Insect Repellent Chatbot at
https://www.cdc.gov/mosquitoes/prevention/index.html
- Wear clothing and gear treated with permethrin.
- Cover strollers and baby carriers with mosquito netting.
- Insect-proof your home by repairing or replacing damaged screens.
- Reduce standing water on property. Check and drain toys, trays or pots outdoors that can hold water.
- Change bird baths, static decorative ponds, and animal water tanks weekly to prevent mosquito larvae that are in the water from becoming adults.
To learn more, go to https://westnile.idaho.gov.
