West Nile Virus detected in mosquitoes in 4 counties
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News from DPHHS
MONTANA — State and local health officials are reporting today the first Montana West Nile virus (WNV) detections for summer 2024 across four counties.
Six mosquito pools in Blaine, Dawson, Prairie, and Wibaux counties have tested positive for WNV. Detection in mosquitoes is an early indicator that activity is increasing within the state, putting humans at higher risk of illness.
Infections can occur in humans after a bite from an infected Culex mosquito. Increased risk of transmission to humans is expected to continue through October – or as long as mosquitoes are active in the state.
Most people who become infected with WNV will not experience symptoms, but 1 in 5 experience minor illness causing headache, rash, body aches, joint pains, fatigue, vomiting, and diarrhea. Fatigue and body aches may persist for weeks following infection.
About 1 in 150 human infections result in severe disease, referred to as neuroinvasive West Nile. Neuroinvasive West Nile can cause neurological symptoms including disorientation, stupor, coma, paralysis, vision loss, and convulsions. WNV can be fatal or lead to long-term neurological complications such as paralysis.
Currently, there is no vaccine or targeted medication for WNV in humans, aside from supportive care.
To keep mosquitoes away from homes, it’s important to regularly empty standing water at least once per week. For items such as rain barrels, a screen can be applied to the opening to restrict mosquito access. Check out the 4 Ds of mosquito bite prevention below for other mosquito bite prevention tips.
The 4 Ds of Mosquito Bite Prevention:
DEET: Use insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin.Go to: https://www.epa.gov/insect-repellents
Drain: Drain standing water around.
Dawn/Dusk: Mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk.
Dress: If possible, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants.
