US: Six West Nile virus cases reported in Florida

Event

Health officials have confirmed at least six cases of West Nile virus in Duval and Nassau counties (Florida) as of mid-September. The counties have issued a mosquito-borne illness alerts and placed hospitals on high alert. Authorities have advised residents to take precautions against mosquitoes.

Context

West Nile virus is a disease most commonly transmitted by mosquitoes. The majority of infected people exhibit no symptoms, but it is estimated that 20 percent of infected people exhibit symptoms of West Nile fever and 1 percent develop severe neurological infections such as encephalitis and meningitis, certain effects of which can be permanent. The US-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that people over 50 have an increased risk of getting severely ill from the West Nile virus.

Advice

Travelers in Florida are advised to take measures to protect themselves from mosquito bites - e.g. by wearing covering clothing, using insect repellent, and sleeping in an air-conditioned room - and to eliminate possible mosquito breeding grounds in and around their residences (e.g. small pockets of fresh water, such as rainwater that has collected in cans, bottles, tires, flower pots, clogged gutters, etc.). Individuals exhibiting symptoms of serious infection should seek medical attention immediately.