A double-digit amount of people are reported to be in a Oklahoma hospital suffering from the West Nile Virus, including one person from Guthrie.
The Centers for Disease Control is reporting a significant increase in the number of reported cases of West Nile virus; the largest increase since 2004. Over 240 cases, including four deaths have been reported, and 42 states are impacted, to date.
The majority of reported cases are in Texas, Mississippi and Oklahoma, but it is clear that the disease, spread by the bites of infected mosquitoes, is on the rise.
It is not uncertain why Oklahoma is seeing more activity than in recent years, but regardless people need to be aware of the threat.
The state Health Department’s most recent official West Nile report showed 14 cases confirmed statewide as of July 27, but continue to investigate potential more West Nile cases.
Since 2002, there have been 326 confirmed cases, with 20 deaths. No one in Oklahoma has died as a result of the virus since 2009.
West Nile virus can cause serious neurological problems, although approximately 1 percent of those infected will experience them. However, 1 in 5 people infected with West Nile virus will experience symptoms, including headaches, fever, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea and skin rash. Individuals over the age of 50, people with cancer, diabetes, kidney disease or that have organ transplants are the most vulnerable to serious illness, but everyone is susceptible. There is no treatment or cure for West Nile virus.
The Health Department is urging residents to avoid areas with mosquito exposure and take protective measures if they do have to be outside.
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