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WEST NILE VIRUS
In the autumn of 2001 West Nile Virus had arrived in the south suburbs of Chicago via bird and mosquito. The WNV can cause encephalitis, which is an inflammation of the brain. You do not have to over-react to this information, but here are some things you need to know to protect yourself and your family.
Higher Risk
You are at a higher risk for serious consequences from this illness if you are over 55 years of age. During the reporting year of 2002, all age groups experienced confirmed cases, that is, cases that were severe enough to warrant medical attention. Infants, the elderly and people with chronic illnesses that compromise the immune system are particularly vulnerable to severe cases and consequences.
Signs and Symptoms
Most people have no symptoms. Some people become ill 3 to 5 days after the bite. Mild symptoms include fever, headache, body aches and occasionally skin rash and swollen lymph nodes. Less common are severe symptoms such as headache, high fever, stiff neck, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness and paralysis. In a few cases especially in the elderly, death occurs. West Nile encephalitis is not spread person to person.
Treatment
In severe cases, supportive therapy like hospitalization, IV fluids, respirator etc., can be beneficial.
Prevention
There is no vaccine for West Nile Virus encephalitis.
Report dead or dying crows or blue jays to Will County at 815-727-8490 or Cook County Environmental Health Specialist at 708-492-2650.
Avoid activities in areas where mosquitoes are present.
Wear long sleeved shirts and long pants whenever you are outdoors.
Use insect repellant containing DEET, following manufacturer's directions, avoiding use with children under 2 years and on the hands of older children.
Spray clothing with repellents containing DEET or permethrin.
Drain standing water in your yard or living area. Empty water from breeding sites like flowerpots, pet bowls, clogged gutters, swimming pool covers, tires, buckets, cans and other containers where mosquitoes can lay eggs.
There were 4 reported cases of West Nile Virus in Illinois during the 2009 mosquito season. Call for help if you can't eliminate standing water by your house. By taking preventive measures you can maximize your chances of avoiding this illness. Learn more about West Nile virus by linking to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov or the Illinois Department of Public Health at: http://www.idph.state.il.us/envhealth/wnv.html