11 West Nile human cases reported in Philadelphia: Department of Health

PHILADELPHIA – The Philadelphia Department of Health reports numerous confirmed human cases of West Nile virus in 2018.

The health department announced Friday that it had identified 11 confirmed cases of human West Nile virus to date in 2018. However, none of these cases has been fatal.

Previously, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection announced that it has seen the highest level of West Nile virus activity in the mosquito population since the introduction of the disease in 2000.

Human cases have been reported on the mainline and in Montgomery County earlier this year.

Department of Health employees work in a variety of ways to control mosquitoes throughout the city, but need the help of the public.

West Nile virus is a neurological infection transmitted by infected mosquitoes that bite humans.

A majority of people infected with West Nile virus do not develop symptoms. However, one in five people will develop fever and flu-like symptoms.

One in 150 people will develop a serious infection with West Nile virus that causes inflammation of the brain or spine that can lead to death. Although people of all ages may be infected with West Nile virus, people aged 50 and over are at highest risk of serious illness and death. If you or a family member has unexplained headache, weakness and fatigue, consult your healthcare professional.

Since 2001, the annual number of severe cases among city dwellers has fluctuated between no cases and up to 24 cases, with peak periods in 2003, 2010 and 2012. The last five years have been relatively moderate, with only three cases have been observed in 2017.

"We all have a role to play in preventing the spread of West Nile virus," said Thomas Farley, Health Commissioner of Philadelphia. "And it's easy to do: wear an insect repellent and throw the water stagnant."

The Department of Health's vector control service program works every year to prevent mosquitoes in a variety of ways. To date this summer, they have treated more than 57,000 rainwater drainage holes with larvicides to prevent mosquito breeding. They also performed four aerosol sprays, intended to kill adult mosquitoes in certain areas where West Nile virus was found.

Residents are encouraged to report mosquito problems to the health department by calling (215) 685-9000. The reporting of mosquitoes will trigger an inspection and, if appropriate, the treatment of the problem. The most effective way to prevent the spread of West Nile virus is to prevent mosquitoes from breeding on your property. Tips to protect your home and neighborhood from mosquitoes:

• Anything that may contain water can cause mosquitoes, from soda bottle caps to discarded tires. Check your property for these stagnant water sources and discard them.
• At least once or twice a week, empty the water of flower pots, pet food and plates of water, bird baths, pool covers, buckets , barrels, cans
• Empty and store the wading pools for the children on their side.
• Look for clogged gutters and clean them.
• Remove unused tires and other items that may collect water.
• Ventilate ornamental ponds or store them with fish.
• Make sure you check for any containers or garbage in hard to see places, such as under bushes or under your house.
• Keep screens tight on windows and doors.
• Call the Department of Health's helpline at (215) 685-9000 to report mosquito problems in your area.

Since some mosquitoes will find a way to survive, residents can do some things to avoid being stung. Tips for Preventing West Nile Virus for You and Your Family:

• Wear an insect repellent on exposed skin on the outside. The insect repellent must contain one of the following ingredients: DEET, Picardin, Oil of Eucalyptus or PMD.
• When time permits, wear a long-sleeved shirt and long pants when you are outside.
• Remember to stay indoors at dawn, dusk and early evening, when mosquitoes are the most active.

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