West Nile Virus Detected in DC and Virginia

West Nile Virus was detected in mosquitoes in three neighborhoods in the District of Columbia this week according to the Washington, DC Department of Health.

The virus is a seasonal epidemic that begins in summer and lasts into the fall. Mosquitoes with the virus can infect birds and humans—especially those who are elderly or have a compromised immune system.

The virus has been detected in Virginia (Henrico County), but not yet in Maryland.

The virus is spread through mosquito bites. The virus can not be spread from person to person. Symptoms appear in three to 14 days.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the best way to prevent the spread of West Nile Virus is to use insect repellant—preferably one that contains DEET—when you go outdoors and rid your garden of mosquito breeding sites (standing water). To do this:

• Empty standing water from flower pots, buckets and barrels
• Change the water in pet dishes and replace the water in bird baths weekly
• Drill holes in tire swings so water drains out
• Keep children's wading pools empty and on their sides when not in use

According to the CDC, about one in 150 people infected with West Nile Virus will develop a severe illness that includes high fever, headache, neck stiffness, coma, tremors, vision loss and paralysis. The symptoms can last weeks. Up to 20 percent of people who become infected have milder symptoms that can last a few days. The remaining 80 percent of people have no symptoms at all.

Typically, those infected with the virus do not need to seek medical treatment. There is no cure for West Nile Virus. Severe symptoms and complications from the illness may require hospital care and intravenous fluids.

The Maryland Department of Health (MD-DOH) and the Anne Arundel County Department of Healthmaintain a database of West Nile Virus activity. The MD-DOH can help with mosquito eradication. To report complaints about standing water, call the Anne Arundel County Department of Health at 410-222-7364 or contact by email.

Contact either agency if you find a dead bird, which is often a sign that West Nile has come to the area. Do not handle the bird with bare hands. Use gloves and contact the Department of Health for further instructions.