Your Health Matters
West Nile Virus
In 2003, there were 79 reported cases of West
Nile disease in humans in Oklahoma, according to statistics released by the
Center for Disease Control. Here are some answers to frequently asked
questions to help you be informed and protect your family.
What is the risk of getting sick from West
Nile Virus?
People over 50 are at a high risk and more likely
to develop serious symptoms of West Nile Virus if they are infected. This group
of people should take special precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
What can be done to prevent outbreaks of West
Nile?
Protect yourself and your family from mosquito
bites by spraying your clothing and exposed areas of your body with an insect
repellent that contains "DEET". The repellent should be used sparingly
on bare skin. The more DEET contained in the protection product that you
use the longer the protection. These repellents may irritate the eyes and
mouth, so avoid applying repellent to the hands of children.
What are the symptoms of West Nile Virus?
About one in 150 people who are infected with
West Nile Virus will develop severe illness. The severe 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 and neurological effects may be permanent.
Up to 20 percent of the people who become
infected will display symptoms which can include fever, headache and body aches,
nausea, vomiting and sometimes swollen lymph glands or a skin rash on the chest,
stomach and back. Approximately 80 percent of the people who are infected
with West Nile will not show any symptoms at all.
What should I do if I think I have West Nile
Virus?
Milder West Nile Virus improves on its own, and
people do not necessarily need to seek medical attention for this infection
though they may choose to do so. If you develop symptoms, such as a severe
headache or confusion, you should contact your physician immediately.
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