Cheyenne Laramie County Public Health is reporting Laramie County’s first human case of West Nile virus (WNV) this season. The case was identified in an adult resident who developed neurological symptoms consistent with West Nile Virus infection earlier this month.
This announcement follows positive mosquito surveillance findings in both Cheyenne and southeast Wyoming, where multiple mosquito pools have tested positive for WNV.
“With a recent increase in precipitation, West Nile virus is an active threat this season,” said Kathy Emmons, Executive Director of Cheyenne Laramie County Public Health, “With mosquito activity on the rise, we urge residents to take everyday precautions seriously. It’s always better to be proactive.”
West Nile Virus is primarily transmitted through bites from infected mosquitoes. Most people do not experience symptoms; however, some may experience fever, headache, body ache, vomiting, diarrhea or rash. In rare cases the virus can lead to serious, sometimes fatal illness.
Residents are urged to protect themselves against potential mosquito-borne diseases by preventing mosquito bites. Avoid dawn and dusk, dress in protective clothing such as long sleeves and long pants, drain any standing water, use mosquito repellent or sprays containing DEET, and use doors and screens.
More information on West Nile virus can be found here.