Woman in West Nile valley suffers from long-term symptoms



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SCOTTSDALE, AZ – A woman from the valley says her serious battle with West Nile virus has given her a new perspective on life.

Scottsdale resident Carla Bassham-Hall said she started feeling ill shortly after Labor Day, suffering from fever, headaches and loss of appetite.

“I’m never sick. Never sick,” said Bassham-Hall, who ended up calling 911 to be admitted to the hospital. A few days after the start of her stay, she was told her diagnosis was positive for West Nile virus.

“I was like ‘Oh my God, what am I doing?’ And they said, “You can’t do nothing. Nothing. “

Bassham-Hall spent a total of six days at Honor Health Grayhawk Hospital. She said West Nile virus was extremely personal to her after losing a friend to the virus years ago. Her friend was only 32 years old.

“If I could help one person just understand it’s not a joke. It will make your life horrible,” said Bassham-Hall, who is still dealing with fatigue and headaches more than two weeks after his release. of the hospital. “Today is the first time in a month that I really feel like the Carla everyone knows.”

West Nile virus increased sharply in 2021. In Maricopa County alone, there have been 206 cases and 12 deaths, with nearly 20 deaths statewide. The number of mosquitoes testing positive for West Nile virus (693) is higher than the previous three years combined.

People 60 and older are more likely to have severe West Nile symptoms, and the best way to protect yourself is to wear long sleeves and pants, use bug spray, and do your best to get rid of them. of any standing water in your garden, which can serve as breeding ground for mosquitoes.



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