New warnings have been issued by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment which says much of the state is now at an increased risk for West Nile virus infections.
In fact, half of the state is in a high risk while Lyon and surrounding counties are listed in a moderate risk for infection. About one in five people who are infected develop a fever and other symptoms. West Nile virus can be spread to people through mosquito bites but is not spread from person to person. State Epidemiologist Amy Worthington says there are a number of factors they looked at before issuing the risks late last week.
Worthington says the risk level will be monitored on a week-to-week basis. She says 20 percent of individuals will develop symptoms and another 20 percent of those will develop a neuroinvasive disease which can result in hospitalization or death. Fortunately she the situation hasn’t resulted in any serious illnesses to this point.
There are no vaccines or medications to treat West Nile. People who have had the virus are considered immune.
KDHE recommends several prevention measures, which you can find with this story at KVOE.com.
*Using insect repellent containing DEET.
*Wear long sleeves and pants during dusk and dawn hours or stay indoors
*The elderly or those with a weakened immune system should consider limiting their exposure outside during dusk and dawn.
*Make sure you have good screens on your windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out.
*Get rid of mosquito breeding sites by emptying standing water from flower pots, buckets and barrels.
*Horses can also be infected with WNV. Talk with your veterinarian about vaccinating your horse to protect them against WNV.
KDHE courtesy graphic
