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Woman Contracts West Nile Virus

POSTED: Friday, July 27, 2007
UPDATED: 6:07 pm CDT July 27, 2007

HOUSTON -- Harris County has its first confirmed human case of West Nile virus this year, officials told KPRC Local 2 Friday.

A 52-year-old northeast Houston woman developed symptoms and was admitted to the hospital in late June.

Video: Mosquito Control Measures Taken After West Nile Case Reported

Doctors said most people infected with the virus experience flulike symptoms. In severe cases, it can develop into encephalitis or meningitis. Symptoms usually develop three to 15 days after infection, according to authorities.

Although the elderly and those with weakened immune systems are at highest risk of severe illness, the virus poses a risk to all residents.

Last year, 55 cases of West Nile virus were reported in the Houston area, including four deaths.

West Nile Virus Symptoms In Humans
  • Flulike illness, with moderate to high fever
  • Headache
  • Muscle weakness or joint pain
  • Fatigue
  • Nausea
  • Possible seizures
  • Paralysis
  • Respiratory symptoms

West Nile Virus Symptoms In Animals
  • Loss of appetite
  • Depression
  • Fever
  • Weakness
  • Convulsions

To help eliminate mosquito-breeding sites and prevent mosquito-borne diseases, residents should do the following.
  • Wear long pants and long-sleeve shirts when outdoors, particularly at dawn and dusk.
  • Use insect repellent that contains DEET. Children should use insect repellents that contain less than 10 percent DEET. Do not apply DEET on babies. Adults should use insect repellents that contain more than 10 percent DEET.
  • Make sure screens on windows and doors are in good condition.
  • Keep the storm sewers clean to reduce mosquito breeding.
  • Sweep up lawn clippings, leaves and limbs from sidewalks, driveways, curbs and gutters.
  • Don't let lawn water or car washing water enter the street.
  • Pick up litter and other debris from the yard and the street.
  • Keep mosquitoes out of the house.
  • Keep doors and windows closed.
  • Seal cracks and gaps in the house.
  • If mosquitoes are in the house, use flying insect spray, following label instructions.
  • Empty, remove or dispose of anything in the yard that can hold water: flower pot saucers, cans, toys, litter, rain barrels, plastic sheeting, etc.
  • Pet water bowls and birdbaths should be emptied and refilled at least twice a week.
  • Keep rain gutters on the house clean and properly draining.
  • Repair household water leaks, move air conditioner drain hose frequently.
  • Report water and sewer main leaks and breaks to 311.

More Information:

Previous Stories:


Copyright 2007 by Click2Houston.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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