ADA COUNTY, Idaho — Central and Southwest District Health report that two Idaho residents have been infected with the West Nile virus; one woman in Canyon County and one man in Ada County.
The woman has been identified as being over the age of 60 and was hospitalized by the infection but has since been discharged from the hospital. The health districts report that mosquitoes carrying West Nile have been detected in six Idaho counties so far this year.
West Nile is spread through a bite from an infected mosquito and can lead to severe disease in some people. The virus has also been known to spread to horses and birds but usually does not affect domestic animals like dogs and cats. Infection from West Nile has been known to give symptoms of fever, headaches, body aches, nausea, or a skin rash. The health districts said that infection can result in severe illness, especially in people 50 years or older with the possibility of death.
"Local cases of West Nile serve as an important reminder for us all to protect ourselves and our families against mosquito bites," said Victoria O'Dell, CDH epidemiologist. "Simple tactics include using insect repellant and wearing protective clothing in addition to getting rid of standing water around our yards and homes to prevent mosquitoes from laying their eggs there."
Central District Health has some tips to protect against a West Nile infection:
- Avoid areas with mosquitoes particularly between dusk and dawn when they are most active.
- Cover up exposed skin with clothing and apply a DEET insect repellent.
- Insect-proof your home by ensuring your screens aren’t damaged.
- Clear any standing water on your property.
- Change water in bird baths, decorative ponds and water tanks weekly to reduce mosquito habitats.