West Nile Virus Outbreak: Infected Mosquitoes Surge, Protect Your Family Now!

ALMONT, Mich. - June 28, 2024 - PRLog -- West Nile virus cases are appearing earlier than usual this year, raising concerns about a potential increase in diagnoses. Typically emerging in July, nine cases have already been recorded across the US in 2024.

Tennessee and Kansas reported their first cases in May, nearly two months ahead of schedule. Arkansas, Mississippi, Maryland, Michigan, Arizona, and Colorado have also recorded human cases. Infected mosquitoes are being spotted earlier in states like Michigan and Connecticut.

In Las Vegas, record-breaking numbers of infected mosquitoes are worrying officials. They've found 24,000 mosquitoes from April to June, nearly four times the usual amount. Of these, 169 mosquito pools tested positive for West Nile virus, surpassing the 2019 record.

Dr. Thomas Moore, an infectious diseases expert, told DailyMail.com that while it's unusual to see so many early cases, it's hard to predict if this will lead to a larger outbreak. He suggested global warming might be causing mosquitoes to become active earlier.

Of the nine reported cases nationwide, five have developed a severe form of the disease. Health officials in Kansas and Michigan have expressed concern about the early appearance of cases and infected mosquitoes.

West Nile virus cases have been increasing in recent years, with about 2,500 cases recorded last year, more than double the 1,130 in 2022. However, experts believe these figures are likely underestimated as most infected people aren't tested.

People catch the disease from infected Asian Tiger mosquito bites. About one in five people show symptoms like fever, headache, and a spotty rash. These can last from days to weeks, with treatment involving fluids, rest, and over-the-counter painkillers.

Officials advise taking preventive measures against mosquito bites, such as using insect repellent and removing standing water where mosquitoes breed. As the virus season typically lasts until October, continued vigilance is crucial to minimize its spread.

Less than 1% of symptomatic cases develop West Nile neuroinvasive disease (WNND), which can be fatal. WNND causes brain inflammation, leading to seizures and coma. 3-15% of WNND patients die, sometimes due to respiratory failure. Young children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals are at highest risk.

Experts warn that warmer, wetter weather has led to earlier mosquito activity this year, expected to last until October. There are also concerns about other mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever.

To protect against West Nile virus, officials recommend using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and removing standing water near homes to prevent mosquito breeding.
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