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WASHINGTON, Jun 22, 2005 (United Press International via COMTEX) -- Federal health officials said Tuesday the first human case this year of the potentially deadly West Nile virus has been detected in Kansas.
"This season's first human case of West Nile virus reminds us of the importance of taking precautions to avoid becoming ill," said Lyle Petersen, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Division of Vector-Borne Infectious Diseases.
Kansas officials identified the patient as a 51-year-old resident of Douglas County. The person, whose gender was not revealed, first showed signs of West Nile virus in mid-May but developed only a mild case with symptoms such as fever and general muscle aches and weakness.
"This early reporting of a probable human case reminds us the disease is in Kansas," said Gail Hansen, acting epidemiologist for the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.
"We cannot get rid of West Nile Virus, but we can reduce our chances of becoming infected," Hansen added.
West Nile, which is spread by mosquitoes, first emerged in the United States in New York in 1999. Since then, the virus has spread to all but two states (Hawaii and Alaska), infecting nearly 17,000 people and killing 650.
The disease's severity can range from mild or almost no symptoms to coma and death. Most people who acquire West Nile virus will experience the milder version of the disease, but about one in every 150 infected people will go on to develop a more severe illness. The greatest risk is to those over age 50 and to recipients of organ transplants.
Humans typically acquire West Nile from the bite of an infected mosquito, but the disease also can be transmitted through transplanted organs or blood from infected individuals. Mothers who become infected can transmit it to their developing fetus, and the disease also is likely transmitted through breast milk.
Since 2003 blood donations have been screened for the virus, reducing the risk of transmitting it through blood transfusions.
Although the first human case of 2005 was found in Kansas, the CDC noted that 14 states this year already have reported finding the disease in birds, mosquitoes or horses. Mosquitoes acquire West Nile virus from infected birds and can subsequently infect horses and humans.
"It's impossible to predict what this year's season will hold," Petersen said, "so everyone who spends time outdoors should take steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites and West Nile virus."
CDC officials recommend using insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites and eliminating mosquito-breeding grounds by emptying pools of standing water, such as birdbaths.
The agency also advises consumers to use insect repellent that contains DEET, or permethrin, to ward off mosquitoes. Repellents containing picaridin and oil of lemon eucalyptus also may provide protection.
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Copyright 2005 by United Press International.
