New Human Case Of West Nile
By: Import User
Updated: January 7, 2009
Jefferson County reported its seventh human
case of the West Nile Virus today, bringing the total number of
Arkansans infected with the mosquito-borne illness to 11.
The virus has been confirmed in humans, horses or birds in 35 of
the state`s counties.
Human cases were reported earlier this year in Cleburne, Miller,
Pulaski and Sevier counties.
Most people who contract the disease have mild or no symptoms.
In rare cases, the illness can cause fatal brain swelling.
The state Health Department encourages residents to deliver dead
birds to local health units so they can be tested, but testing is
suspended in counties where the virus has already been confirmed
this year.
Health officials say residents should work to avoid being bitten
by mosquitoes.
Posted by Mike Hellgren
