First human cases of West Nile virus reported in Kansas

TOPEKA, Kan. (KAKE) –

Health in Kansas confirms two cases of West Nile virus in the state, with most counties at high risk of infection.

The Kansas Ministry of Health and Environment's Weekly Monitoring and Transmission Risk Report for the week ending September 7 shows that only the 15 counties in southeastern Kansas are at moderate risk.

"High-risk environmental conditions include above-normal temperatures with or without above normal precipitation," the report says.

The website of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that two cases of West Nile virus have been reported in Kansas. The KDHE indicates that one case is in Sedgwick County and the other in McPherson County.

Cases were reported in July and August.

Here is a graph showing the current level of risk for West Nile (red is high and orange is moderate):

West Nile virus can be transmitted to people through mosquito bites, but it is not spread from person to person. About one in five infected people develop fever and other symptoms. About one in every 150 infected people contract swelling of the brain or brain tissue that in some cases can lead to death.

According to the KDHE, there are no vaccines or drugs to treat West Nile virus in humans. People who have already had the virus are considered immune.

KDHE recommends the following preventive measures:

• Visit the KDHE WNV website each week for current WNV risk levels.
• When you are outdoors, use an insect repellent containing an active ingredient registered with the EPA on skin and clothing, including DEET, picaridine, lemon oil, l & # 39; 39, Eucalyptus or IR3535. Follow the instructions on the package.
• Many mosquitoes are more active at dusk and dawn. Be sure to use an insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants at these times, or consider staying indoors during these hours.
• Older people or those with compromised immune systems should consider limiting outdoor exposure at dusk and dawn when Culex mosquitoes are the most active.
• Make sure you have good screens on your windows and doors to prevent mosquitoes from entering.
• Eliminate mosquito breeding sites by emptying stagnant water from flower pots, buckets and barrels. Change the water in the pet dishes and replace the water in the bird baths every week. Drill holes in the tires to let the water run out. Keep children's wading pools empty and on their sides when not in use.
• Horses can also be infected with WNV. Talk to your veterinarian about vaccinating your horse to protect against WNV.

For any questions about West Nile virus or other arboviral diseases, contact the KDHE Epidemiology Hotline at 877-427-7317.