West Nile Virus "Spiking" In U.S.
and Affecting Northeast Texas

 

From Numerous Sources

 

In the U.S. the Center for Disease Control has reported a "spike" in the number of case of West Nile Virus infections, during the 2012 season, with some 250 cases reported nationwide, this summer. Five deaths in the state of Texas have been attributed to the virus, thus far, this summer, and cases have been reported as close to Hopkins County, as neighboring Hunt County. Approximately 80% of the cases reported have been in Texas, Mississippi, and Oklahoma.

People should be aware of the symptoms and should minimize their contact with mosquitoes or frequenting areas noted for mosquito populations, as they are the main carrier of the virus transmission.

Symptoms of the infection include headaches, fever, aching bodies and joints, vomiting, diarrhea, and a rash on the body. The virus is usually transmitted during the months of June through September, when conditions are right for mosquitoes, and generally peaks during the month of August.

 

 

 

Reports of some in Hunt County suffering from the neurological symptoms of the disease, encephalitis and meningitis have occurred, according to published reports.

Particular caution should be made if you are over 50 years of age, are suffering from diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and kidney disease, or have received an organ transplant.

There is no known cure or medication to treat the West Nile Virus, that is so named because it was first reported in 1937, in Uganda. The virus first appeared in the U.S. in 1999.

Should you suspect that you have the symptoms, please consult your doctor, immediately.

 

 

 

Health experts agree that prevention is the best policy and that you should avoid mosquito infested areas, use insect repellent, and make certain that you destroy any areas around your home that are prone to hold water, for mosquito breeding habitat!

Many cities in Northeast Texas are conducting spraying campaigns to help destroy the mosquito population, as a precaution to their residents and a preventative to the spread of the virus.

 

 

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