ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo. — The St. Louis County Department of Public Health on Wednesday reported the first documented case of West Nile virus in a human this year.
A man over 65 years old tested positive for the virus this month, the health department said in a statement. The case is unrelated to the detection of mosquitos carrying the virus earlier this month.
"While serious cases of West Nile virus are rare, it's important to protect ourselves and those around us by taking preventive measures," health department director Dr. Kanika Cunningham said. "We all have a role in reducing mosquito exposure to help keep our community safe."
The virus is the most common mosquito-borne illness in the United States and does not cause symptoms for most people, though around one in five people will experience mild symptoms, such as fever, headaches, body aches, joint pain, rashes, vomiting or diarrhea, the health department said. Symptoms can be more severe in rare cases.
Pregnant women are advised to be especially cautious because there is potential to transmit the virus to the baby during pregnancy or delivery. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said EPA-registered insect repellents are safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
The department provided the following tips to mitigate risk:
- Wear Protective Clothing: Choose long sleeves, long pants, and light-colored clothing when outdoors, especially during peak mosquito activity times such as dawn and dusk.
- Use EPA-Registered Insect Repellents: Apply repellents containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol, or IR3535. Follow the product instructions and avoid using certain ingredients on young children.
- Eliminate Standing Water: Regularly empty and clean items that collect water, like buckets, flowerpots, and birdbaths. Ensure gutters are clear of debris to prevent water accumulation.
- Treat Water Sources: Use Bti products to control mosquito larvae in ponds and other water sources. Bti is safe for humans and animals and helps reduce mosquito populations.
- Maintain and Repair Screens: Check for and fix any holes in window and door screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.
- Consider Mosquito Netting: Use mosquito netting over sleeping areas or outdoor seating when appropriate to provide an extra barrier against mosquito bites.
The department said the county's Vector-borne Disease Prevention Program manages and monitors for the virus. The program conducts mosquito spraying in affected areas, but does accommodate citizen requests for no-spray zones, the department said. Those interested in more information or to request a no-spray area may call 314-615-4284, or contact the program via 314-615- 0680 or its website.
