HEALTH OFFICIALS IDENTIFY HUMAN CASE OF WEST NILE VIRUS

News media contact:
Wendi Jackson
Public Information Specialist

Daytona Beach, Fla.— The Florida Department of Health in Volusia County (DOH-Volusia) today advised residents of an increase in mosquito-borne disease activity in Volusia County. A human case of West Nile virus has been confirmed and there is a heightened concern additional residents may become ill.

Most people do not develop any symptoms, but one in five people can experience headache, body ache, joint pain, diarrhea or rash. Severe illness can occur in people of any age, however people over 60 years of age are at greater risk. Symptoms of severe illness include high fever, neck stiffness, tremors, muscle weakness and vision loss.

While the peak period of transmission in Florida is July through September, mosquito-borne diseases can be transmitted throughout the fall. West Nile virus is transmitted to wild birds by Culex mosquitoes. Occasionally, an infected mosquito will bite a human or animal (particularly horses) and cause disease. Culex mosquitoes are known to bite from dusk to dawn.

Volusia County Mosquito Control and DOH-Volusia continue surveillance and prevention efforts. Residents and visitors should avoid being bitten by mosquitoes by taking basic precautions to help to limit exposure, including:

• Drain standing water to stop mosquitoes from multiplying.
• Cover skin with clothing or insect repellent (preferably with DEET).
• Cover doors and windows with screens to keep mosquitoes out of your house. (See Media Release from Aug. 12.)

DOH continues to conduct statewide surveillance for mosquito-borne illnesses, including West Nile virus, Eastern Equine Encephalitis, St. Louis Encephalitis, Malaria and Dengue. For more information on mosquito-borne illnesses, visit the Florida Department of Health online or call the Florida Department of Health in Volusia County, (386) 274-0694.

About the Florida Department of Health

The department works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

Follow us on Twitter at @HealthyVolusia and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.