07 Oct 2024 | 11:56 AM UTC
Barbados: Confirmed West Nile Virus activity reported in Saint Thomas in early October
Confirmed West Nile Virus activity reported in Saint Thomas, Barbados, in early October. Avoid mosquito bites.
On Sept. 13, health officials confirmed the country’s first West Nile Virus case. The patient is from Saint Thomas and started developing symptoms in June. The source of the infection is still unknown. Authorities suspect the virus is circulating undetected among birds or horses. The risk to the general public is currently low.
Health officials are monitoring the situation and implementing vector control measures such as targeted fogging and eliminating breeding sites to reduce mosquito populations. Public awareness campaigns encourage residents to take preventive actions, such as removing standing water and maintaining proper sanitation. This report represents the most up-to-date information available as of Oct. 7.
Avoid mosquito bites and remove standing water to reduce the number of biting mosquitoes. Seek medical attention if symptoms develop within two weeks of being in affected areas.
West Nile Virus is in circulation in the Caribbean, but there have been no previous reports of the virus in birds or horses in Barbados. However, the presence of migratory birds and mosquitoes increases the likelihood of the virus spreading in the country.
West Nile virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most infected people develop no symptoms. However, approximately 20 percent of infected people develop febrile illness characterized by symptoms of fever, headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, and rash. Fewer than 1 percent of infected individuals develop serious neurologic illness, which can be life-threatening. Symptoms typically appear 2-6 days after being bitten, but can develop up to 14 days after exposure.
