|
RODERICK L. BREMBY, SECRETARY |
K A N S A S DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT |
KATHLEEN SEBELIUS, GOVERNOR |
||
|
||||
KDHE Confirms First Human West Nile Virus Case in Kansas for 2003
KDHE today confirmed the first known case of West Nile Virus meningitis in Kansas this year. The 38 year old is from Gray County and first had signs of meningitis July 20. The patient is recovering.
"We extend our best wishes for a speedy recovery to the patient," said Deputy State Epidemiologist, Dr. Gail Hansen. "West Nile Virus rarely causes serious illness in humans who encounter the virus, but it is obviously possible."
KDHE, local health departments, and physicians across Kansas have been preparing for the re-emergence of West Nile Virus encephalitis or meningitis in humans this summer.
"That a human case was confirmed in Kansas really comes as no surprise since it has been found in birds, horses and mosquitoes already in the state this year and we had 22 human case last year," said Dr. Hansen. "Even if an infected mosquito bites you, your chances of becoming seriously ill are small. Nevertheless, we are urging Kansans--particularly older adults and people with compromised immune systems--to take seriously the precautions against being bitten by mosquitoes and to make these precautions a regular part of their daily activities and lifestyles."
Birds tested in Gray county were positive for West Nile Virus in early July. Evidence of West Nile Virus in animals or mosquitoes has been found in 25 counties so far this year.
West Nile Virus is primarily considered a disease of birds. It can be transmitted to humans when a mosquito bites an infected bird and then bites a human. Usually West Nile Virus only causes mild disease in humans, but in rare cases the virus may cause swelling of the brain (encephalitis), the covering of the brain (meningitis), or even death.
Mosquito control and protection is the best defense against West Nile Virus. KDHE recommends avoiding mosquito contact by wearing long sleeves and pants and using a repellent containing DEET as labeled. Outdoor activities in the evening, when mosquitoes are most active, should be avoided. People should check around their homes and empty any containers holding water such as tires, birdbaths, pool covers, and buckets to minimize mosquito egg laying habitats.