FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:         September 23, 2010

CONTACT:                                        Two Rivers Public Health Department

                                                            Terry Krohn, Director or

 

SIX CASES OF WEST NILE VIRUS IN TWO RIVERS PUBLIC HEALTH DEPARTMENT

 

On Thursday, September 23, 2010 the State Veterinarian, Dr. Annette Bredthauer, DVM notified local health departments that DHHS will be closing bird testing for the season and Two Rivers Public Health Department will no longer be accepting dead birds for West Nile Virus testing.   Although we are no longer collecting birds for testing, people should continue to protect themselves from mosquito bites.  Two Rivers has received notification of six positive human cases this year. Of these cases, two were ill enough to be hospitalized.  

 

During outside activities, students, coaches and fans still need to protect themselves against mosquitoes carrying West Nile Virus. Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk, during practices and events, so let’s keep our athletes, musicians and spectators safe!   Use an insect repellent containing DEET, Picaridin, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus or IR 3535. Choose the type and concentration of repellent to be used by considering the amount of time that will be spent outdoors. You and your family can also wear socks, long pants and shirts with long sleeves while outdoors to protect yourselves from mosquito bites.   

 

West Nile virus is transmitted to humans after they are bitten by a mosquito infected with the virus. With our frequent rainfalls and continuing to spend time outside, it is important to take precautions to reduce the risk of being bitten by mosquitoes.  Here is a list of precautions to follow when using DEET:

•         A product that combines DEET and a sunscreen is NOT recommended.

•         Avoid spraying in enclosed areas; do not use DEET near food.

•         Apply DEET sparingly on exposed skin; do not use under clothing.

•         Do not use DEET over cuts, wounds or irritated skin. Wash treated skin with soap and water after returning indoors; wash treated clothing.

•         Store out of reach of children, and read all instructions on the label before applying.

•         Do not allow children to apply DEET themselves.

•         Do not use DEET on the hands of young children; avoid applying to areas around the eyes and mouth.

•         Do not apply directly on children. Apply to your own hands, and then put it on the child.

•         If you think a child is having a reaction to a product containing DEET, wash the treated area immediately contact your health care provider or local poison control center.  1-800-222-1222

 

Symptoms of West Nile virus vary from person to person. They include fever, headache, and body aches, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes swollen lymph glands or a skin rash on the chest, stomach and back. Symptoms typically last a few days. About one in 150 people will develop severe illness. These symptoms can include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness and paralysis. These symptoms may last several weeks, neurological effects may be permanent.