The Alachua County Department of Health confirmed a case of West Nile virus, the agency announced June 23. It is the first case of the virus reported in the state this year.
The virus primarily spreads through mosquito bites during mosquito season, which reaches its peak in Florida from July through September, according to the Florida Department of Health.
West Nile virus is one of several mosquito-borne illnesses commonly found in Florida, among them Eastern equine encephalitis and St. Louis encephalitis.
People contract the virus when mosquitoes feed on infected birds and then bite humans. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the virus is rarely spread person-to-person through blood transfusion, organ transplantation, and from mother to baby during pregnancy, delivery or breastfeeding.
The Alachua County DOH said it is working with county and city officials to contain the spread through treatments at county-maintained retention basins and targeted spraying, and is encouraging residents to report dead birds to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, which uses the reports to aid early detection efforts.
Health officials advise residents to drain standing water, cover skin, use insect repellent, and ensure doors and windows have screens to avoid contracting the virus.
The CDC estimates about 2,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with West Nile virus each year, though officials warn the figure is likely an undercount since most people don’t develop symptoms or mistake mild symptoms for other illnesses.
Those who do develop symptoms usually notice them two to six days after being bitten by an infected mosquito, though it may take longer for symptoms to start, especially for people with weakened immune systems.
Symptoms of West Nile virus
Mild
Severe
There is no specific treatment for West Nile virus. Mild cases typically resolve on their own, though it may take weeks to recover.
Severe cases usually require hospitalization, where patients can receive supportive care such as intravenous fluids and breathing assistance. Recovery from severe cases can take several weeks to months.
In rare cases, the virus can cause meningitis or encephalitis, leading to permanent neurological damage, paralysis, coma or death. Age, certain chronic medical conditions and a weakened immune system all increase the risk of developing more serious illness.
Alachua County reported no cases of West Nile virus last year. Florida recorded 13 cases statewide in the same period.
The Alachua County DOH recommends anyone who suspects they or a family member may have West Nile virus contact a health care provider.
This article originally appeared on The Gainesville Sun: First West Nile virus case reported this year in Alachua County
Reporting by Chelsea Long, Gainesville Sun / The Gainesville Sun
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Chelsea Long, Gainesville Sun | USA TODAY Network
