The first death this year from West Nile Virus in the North State has been reported in Butte County. It’s the tenth death from West Nile Virus in the state.
County health officials said in a press release Friday that the disease claimed the life of a senior citizen who was confirmed to have the most severe form of the virus, which is neuro-invasive. It can lead to meningitis, as well as encephalitis.
According to the release, nearly eight out of 10 people who contract West Nile Virus don’t experience any symptoms. Fewer than one in 150 people experience the neuro-invasive form of the virus, most who do are 60 years or older. Children are also susceptible to the rarer form of the disease. The county reports that four children have contracted it this year.
Butte County currently has the most human cases of West Nile Virus in the state, with 45. About half of those occurred in people under the age of 50. Other North State counties that have seen human cases this year are: Colusa, Glenn, Tehama, Shasta, Siskiyou, Sutter and Yuba.
West Nile Virus season commonly lasts through October. The virus is transmitted to humans and animals through mosquito bites, so caution should be taken to avoid getting bitten.
Health officials commonly advise to practice the three Ds to stay protected.
DEET: Use insect repellent that contains DEET.
DUSK & DAWN: Wear clothes that cover all bare skin during dusk and dawn, which is when mosquitos are most active.
DRAIN: Make sure to drain any and all standing water on your property, which is wear mosquitos lay their eggs.
