West Nile Virus detected in North Idaho

BONNERS FERRY - Mosquitoes infected with West Nile virus have been detected in Boundary County.

The infected mosquitoes were discovered July 19 as part of the county's Mosquito Abatement Program. It's the first detection of WNV in northern Idaho, according to a Panhandle Health District press release.

With the discovery of the infected mosquitoes, PHD officials advised residents to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

In 2006, Idaho led the nation in West Nile illnesses with almost 1,000 infections, which contributed to 23 deaths. In 2013, 40 human cases were reported in 16 counties, and there were two deaths. In 2013 and to date in 2014, there have been no human cases of WNV in the five northern counties of Idaho.

West Nile virus is usually contracted from the bite of an infected mosquito; it is not spread from person-to-person through casual contact, PHD said.

Symptoms of infection often include fever, headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes swollen lymph glands or a skin rash on the chest, stomach, and back. In some cases the virus can cause severe illness, especially those older than 50.

To reduce the likelihood of infection, PHD advised residents in the region to avoid mosquitoes, particularly between dusk and dawn when they are most active.

In addition, people should:

• Cover up exposed skin when outdoors and apply DEET or other EPA-approved insect repellent to exposed skin and clothing. Carefully follow instructions on the product label, especially for children.

• Insect-proof your home by repairing or replacing screens.

n Reduce standing water on your property; check and drain toys, trays or pots outdoors which may hold water.

n Change bird baths and static decorative ponds weekly as they may provide a suitable mosquito habitat.

While West Nile virus does not usually affect domestic animals, including dogs and cats, it can cause severe illness in horses and certain species of birds. There is no vaccine available for people; however, there are several vaccines available for horses. People are advised to keep their horses vaccinated annually.

Information: www.westnile.idaho.gov