How did drought promote the outbreak of West Nile virus?
Data from Colorado indicate that drought increases the fraction mosquitoes infected with West Nile virus, but not the abundance of mosquitoes. Drought might affect transmission between mosquitoes and birds by stressing birds or changing where they congregate.
Are people still dying from West Nile virus?
While the disease currently appears to be spreading, CDC figures indicate that the situation is not worse than last year, when 664 cases and 52 deaths were reported across the country. The West Nile virus is transmitted to humans through a mosquito bite (although most mosquitoes do not carry the disease).
Which two states have had no West Nile virus activity?
Alaska, Hawaii, and Guam have no reported cases of West Nile virus in humans or animals. Distribution maps are available from the Centers for Disease Control.
Does Washington have a mosquito problem?
Over 40 different mosquito species can be found in Washington, and many are vectors for diseases, such as West Nile virus, western equine encephalitis and St. Louis encephalitis. These mosquito-borne disease outbreaks prompted the development of many mosquito control districts in our state.
Which are symptoms of the West Nile virus?
About 1 in 5 people who are infected develop a fever with other symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Most people with febrile illness due to West Nile virus recover completely, but fatigue and weakness can last for weeks or months.
How does climate affect West Nile virus?
Climate change will make outbreaks of West Nile virus more likely in the UK within the next 20-30 years, scientists say. West Nile virus is spread by mosquitoes and has no vaccine. Most people have no symptoms, but it can cause serious neurological disease.
Is West Nile curable?
Because it’s a viral condition, West Nile virus doesn’t have a cure. But you can take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, to relieve symptoms of West Nile virus such as muscle aches and headaches.
Is West Nile contagious?
Is the West Nile virus contagious? The West Nile virus is not contagious. It cannot be transmitted from person to person. A person cannot get the virus, for example, from touching or kissing a person who has the disease or from a health-care worker who has treated someone with the disease.
Where is West Nile the worst?
Highest incidence rates are observed in states of the central great plains, with South Dakota, Wyoming and North Dakota leading in incidence. During the 2012 West Nile virus outbreak in Texas, 1,868 cases were reported.
Why are there no bugs in Seattle?
In Seattle, we don’t have the high temperatures to quickly pump out those generations, Collman said. Stagnant water – the swampier and steamier the better – also helps mosquitos thrive. In Seattle, waters moves through locks and canals, not soggy wetlands.
Why are there no mosquitoes in Seattle?
The basic reason is that Seattle is neither flat nor hot. Mosquitos need stagnant water and sustained hot weather to thrive. Seattle is a city of large hills with mountains in most every direction. The water flows vigorously and the weather is neither hot nor cold.
Is there West Nile virus in Washington State?
In Washington, the first cases of people becoming ill from West Nile virus were reported in 2006. To see data and statistics on human cases and environmental detections in Washington, see West Nile Virus surveillance maps and statistics. How is West Nile virus spread?
What is West Nile virus in horses?
West Nile virus can cause serious illness in horses, mules, and donkeys. Though most horses that become infected will not get sick, about 1 in 3 horses infected will die.
Can mosquitoes spread West Nile virus?
Mosquitoes become infected after feeding on birds that carry the virus. There is no evidence that West Nile virus can be spread by direct contact with infected people or animals. Who is at risk? The risk of getting West Nile virus is very low, but anyone can become infected.
How do you get rid of West Nile virus?
In recent years, monitoring of mosquitoes has proven to be a more reliable indication of current West Nile virus activity. Dispose of the dead bird safely. Don’t handle it with your bare hands. Use gloves or an inverted plastic bag to place the bird in a garbage bag, and dispose in your outdoor garbage can.