Abandoned homes with backyard pools and spas are creating a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
Any standing water, even a small puddle created from daily sprinklers, can create the perfect location for mosquitoes to reproduce. Mosquitoes are not picky. They can be found in urban as well as rural areas. Those that carry the West Nile virus represent a threat to humans as well as domestic and farm/ranch animals such as dogs, cats, rabbits, and horses.
All residents need to explore their homes for any possible standing water and remove the source or daily change or remove the water. Precautions should be taken to avoid being bitten.
Cases Reported Across U.S.
Two new cases were reported last week in New York, and mosquitoes carrying the virus were identified in the San Diego, CA area. Cases have been reported all over the U.S. and health officials are struggling to find efficient ways to make residents aware of the issue. Until the first real frost hits, each region of the country should still be alert to the possibility of mosquito growth and West Nile virus.
Manifestions of the Virus
One form is an infection that is asymptomatic, in other words the victim won’t even know he has been infected.
Victims with the second form exhibit a mild fever with or without body aches. Chills, excessive sweating, headache, drowsiness and weakness may also occur. Some patients have also exhibited nausea, diarrhea and vomiting.
The third form is the most severe and can be fatal. In this form, the virus attacks the nervous system and results in meningitis or encephalitis. In addition to the fever and other symptoms, victims experience a decreased level of consciousness and even coma. The recovery can long and complicated by much fatigue.
Meningitis
Meningitis is defined as the swelling of the protective membranes of the brain and spinal cord known as the meninges. The brain and/or spinal cord can be damaged as a result of this swelling. If the damage is sever, the patient can die. Symptoms include a severe headache, stiff neck and an altered mental state which can include delirium. It can also cause a sensitivity to light and sound.
Encephalitis
Encephalitis is an acute inflammation of the brain caused by a virus. The brain swells and pushes against the skull which can result in brain damage and if the damage is severe, death can result. Symptoms include headache, fever, and a sensitivity to light. Patients may also suffer seizures.There may be some stiffness but it is generally in the limbs and not usually the neck. Patients exhibit weakness and clumsiness.
Swelling of the brain and/or spinal cord can cause a coma or decreased level of consciousness. Anyone who has been bitten by a mosquito and exhibits any symptoms should contact his health care practitioner immediately.
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