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COUNTY OF ELKHART, Ind. (WNDU) West Nile virus was found in mosquitoes that were collected in Elkhart County, according to the Indiana State Department of Health.
The only other county in Indiana with confirmed cases is Carroll.
Here is some information about West Nile Virus from the Indiana State Department of Health:
What is West Nile virus?
West Nile virus is a mosquito-transmitted virus that causes encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) and meningitis (inflammation of the tissues that cover the brain and spinal cord). The reservoir (where the virus lives normally and several times) is a wild bird. This virus was known to be present in Africa, Asia, Europe and the Middle East, but it had not been found in the Americas before 1999. Since then, the virus has been detected in most states. located along the east coast. Mississippi. West Nile virus was first identified in birds in Indiana in the summer of 2001.
How can humans get West Nile virus?
Mosquitoes transmit the disease to humans by biting an infected bird and then biting a human. Humans bitten by an infected mosquito may show symptoms within 3 to 15 days of being bitten.
What are the symptoms of West Nile?
Most people infected with West Nile virus have no mild symptoms or symptoms. Some individuals will have a more severe form of the disease, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the tissues that cover the brain and spinal cord).
Symptoms that may be present are: high fever, headache, stiff neck, muscle weakness or paralysis and confusion. Most people have a very mild illness. West Nile virus has been reported in people aged nine months to 94 years, but a more serious illness is likely in people over 50 years of age or in people with weak immune systems.
Can West Nile Disease be treated? Is there a vaccine available to prevent the infection?
There is no specific treatment, but supportive treatment is provided as with other severe viral diseases. There is no vaccine available for humans.
How can transmission be avoided?
Transmission of West Nile virus can be prevented by preventing mosquito bites, the only known route of transmission. To avoid mosquito bites, wear long sleeves and long pants from dusk until dawn, when mosquitoes are most active. Apply an insect repellent containing DEET on exposed skin and clothing. Protect your family and community by reducing the amount of stagnant water available for mosquito breeding in or near your property. For further discussion, visit the West Nile ISDH page.
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