CNN
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California has confirmed the first death of West Nile virus in 2021.
The death took place in San Luis Obispo County, according to A new version From the California Department of Public Health. No other information was given to identify the death.
“West Nile virus activity is on the rise in the state, so I urge Californians to take all feasible precautions to protect against mosquito bites,” said Dr. Thomas Aragon, a public health officer and director of the health department. of the state.
West Nile virus is usually spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. The virus was identified in 177 mosquitoes in 13 counties in the state, according to the health department.
“This month’s high temperatures are contributing to an increase in the number of mosquitoes and an increased risk of transmitting the virus to humans,” the statement said, adding that “activity is falling as expected” this summer.
syndrome West Nile infections include fatigue, fever, headaches, body aches, rashes, and swollen lymph nodes. However, 80% of those infected have no symptoms, according to him Centers for disease control and prevention (CDC).
Although the risk of serious illness is low, people over the age of 50 who have diabetes or high blood pressure are “more likely to get sick,” according to the state health department.
Less than 1% of those affected develop serious neurological diseases, such as encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the protective membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord), according to Center for Disease Prevention and Control.
There is no specific vaccine Therapy for West Nile virus.
The Ministry of Health recommends that you wear appropriate clothing and insect repellents if you are outside, especially in the early morning or evening; closes windows and doors with narrow screens; And since mosquitoes lay eggs on standing water, eliminating “all standing water sources from your property.”
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