West Nile Virus Human Cases - 2007
The map above, courtesy the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), shows the spread of West Nile virus (WNV). It illustrates that WNV is almost everywhere in the United States, and indicates it is probably here to stay. Here are some facts about Missouri cases and deaths in 2007:
- 77 total human West Nile Virus (WNV) cases
- One case in St. Charles County, eleven cases in St. Louis City, and 14 cases in St. Louis County
- Five confirmed or probable deaths due to WNV in Missouri in 2007
- Four males, one female
- Average age 65.4 years, ranging in age from 51 to 79 year
- July 7, 2007 (earliest case) and October 7, 2007 (latest case).
What do all the cases and deaths have in common? They were all preventable! So were the likely thousands of cases that went undetected because West Nile Virus is often a mild and undiagnosed illness. Those over 50 years of age are most likely to have severe illness and be at greatest risk of death. Serious cases DO OCCUR in younger individuals though, so everyone is at risk.
As the above data shows, the earliest cases during a mosquito season almost always occur after July 1. The incubation period for this virus is three to twelve days, so the risk of a bite causing illness increases the last week or so of June and continues until it gets cold enough to kill infected mosquitoes or reduce their activity.
How could these case of WNV have been prevented? They could have been prevented by avoiding the bite. This can be accomplished by using an effective mosquito repellent. The most commonly available repellents are those containing DEET. They are formulated for different age groups and in different concentrations. If label instructions are followed, these are all safe products. For detailed information on insect repellents, please go to this page on the CDC website: www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/RepellentUpdates.htm.
Make this summer safer by avoiding the possibility of being infected by West Nile Virus. Use a repellent!