Idaho's first case of West Nile virus for 2006

Jun 9 2006

West Nile virus was found in mosquitoes from Gem County on May 31, prompting health officials to remind people to 'Fight the Bite' of mosquitoes around their homes or when they are outdoors.

Last year, West Nile virus was discovered in 15 southern Idaho counties, infecting 13 people, over 100 horses and a dozen birds. This is the first indication of WNV in Idaho for 2006. So far this year, seven other states have reported West Nile activity to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

West Nile virus is usually spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquito transmission is possible until a killing frost, which will likely not come again until the fall. West Nile virus does not generally spread from person-to-person or from infected animals to people.

"About 80 percent of people who are bitten by an infected mosquito will not become sick, but others may experience a mild, flu-like illness that can include headaches, body aches and a fever," says Dr. Leslie Tengelsen, Deputy State Epidemiologist. "Although rare, the virus can lead to serious illness, especially in people over the age of 50."

Tengelsen says it is important for people to take precautions. Last year 3,000 Americans were infected with the virus, with almost 120 dying from complications of the virus.