First West Nile virus case in Maryland is on Eastern Shore. How to avoid getting sick.
The state of Maryland has confirmed its first human case of West Nile Virus this year after an adult living on the Eastern Shore tested positive.
The Maryland Department of Health announced that the patient is currently recovering from the infection. A total of 879 West Nile Virus human cases, including both neuroinvasive and non-neuroinvasive, have been reported in 43 states this year as of Sept. 12, 2023, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
West Nile virus is a seasonal epidemic that typically occurs during the summer months and persists into the fall.
The virus was detected in the United States for the first time in 1999. In Maryland, West Nile Virus first appeared in 1999 in a crow in Baltimore City. In 2020, a single confirmed case was identified, four were identified in 2021 and a single infection was identified in 2022, the Maryland Department of Health said in a news release.
“We are in the season when the West Nile West Nile Virusirus can spread in Maryland,” said Deputy Secretary for Public Health Services Dr. Nilesh Kalyanaraman. “We urge people to be vigilant and take steps to avoid infection and eliminate standing pools of water where mosquitoes can breed. Our teams are continuing to monitor mosquito activity across the state."
What is West Nile Virus?
West Nile Virus is transmitted to humans via mosquitoes infected by feeding on birds that have the virus. Infected mosquitoes can transmit the virus to humans and animals when biting to take a blood meal.
In rare instances, the virus may also be spread from person to person through organ donation, blood transfusion, breastfeeding or from pregnant mother to fetus, the release stated.
The disease affects the nervous system, and up to 80% of people who are infected will not display any signs of illness. However, those who have underlying health conditions could become seriously ill. Ultimately, some cases may be fatal.
People who are concerned about mosquitoes should cover up exposed skin and use an EPA-registered insect repellent, said the Maryland Department of Health.
Residents are also urged to monitor their own yards and gardens for areas of high mosquito activity, especially standing water that can serve as a breeding ground. Even small amounts of water in a discarded can or container can support dozens of mosquitoes, as can clogged rain gutters or drain pipes, the release stated.
What are the West Nile virus symptoms?
While most people do not develop symptoms from this virus, some people who develop illness may experience mild symptoms such as fever, headache and body aches. Occasionally, a skin rash and swollen lymph glands may be noticed, said the Maryland Department of Health.
These symptoms may last a few days or as long as several weeks. People who are older than 50 or have immunocompromised conditions are at a greater risk of developing severe disease when infected with West Nile Virus.
According to the Maryland Department of Health, no specific treatment for West Nile Virus infection exists at present. In severe cases, infected individuals may require hospitalization, which might include treatment with IV fluids, breathing support, and nursing care.
MOSQUITOS: Want to know how to get rid of mosquito bites? Here is our treatment, prevention guide
How do I avoid getting sick?
Marylanders can reduce their risk of infection with West Nile Virus by taking the following steps to protect themselves and eliminate mosquito breeding sites around their residences, businesses and surrounding community:
Limit time spent outdoors between dusk and dawn.
Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when going outdoors.
Use an EPA-registered insect repellent and follow the instructions on the product label. Repellents containing DEET are safe for use by adults and children when used according to package directions.
Check that all window screens in your home or business are intact and do not contain holes. Repair any damaged screens.
Remove all discarded tires from your property. If tire removal is not possible, puncture or cut tires to prevent water from collecting in them.
Dispose of tin cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots, or similar water-holding containers.
Make sure roof gutters drain properly. Clean clogged gutters in the spring and fall.
Drain water from pool covers.
Change the water in birdbaths at least once a week.
Turn over plastic wading pools and wheelbarrows when not in use.
Eliminate any standing water that collects on your property.
Remind or help neighbors to eliminate breeding sites on their property.
Check for trapped water in plastic or canvas tarps covering boats, pools, etc. Arrange the tarp to allow water to drain.
Pump out bilges in boats. Store canoes and small boats upside down.
Remove outdoor pet food and water dishes that are not being used.
Flush livestock water troughs twice a week.
Do not leave garbage can lids upside down. Do not let water collect in the bottom of garbage cans or recycle bins.
Check ornamental ponds, tree holes, and water-holding low areas for mosquito larvae.
— Source for tips: Maryland Department of Health.
For more information on West Nile virus, including data and educational materials, visit the Center for Zoonotic and Vectorborne Diseases or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention West Nile virus information page online.
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Olivia Minzola covers communities on the Lower Shore. Contact her with tips and story ideas at ominzola@delmarvanow.com.
This article originally appeared on Salisbury Daily Times: How to avoid getting West Nile, first human case reported in Maryland
