West Nile Virus confirmed in Midland Co

MIDLAND, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- Midland Health Services has reported that a Midland County resident has tested positive for the West Nile Virus. It’s the first case reported in the Tall City this year.

According to City leaders, the State of Texas confirmed the case to Health Services this week.

People are exposed to the virus when they are bitten by mosquitoes that have fed on infected birds. The infected mosquitoes can then spread the disease to humans through a mosquito bite. This disease cannot be spread person-to-person. 80% of those who are infected show no symptoms at all.

For people who do develop symptoms, they can include:

• Headache
• Fever
• Muscle and joint aches
• Nausea
• Fatigue

About 1 in 150 people may develop central nervous system infections and can experience additional symptoms of neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness and paralysis.

While there are no medications to treat or vaccines to these infections, for most symptomatic individuals rest, fluids, and over-the-counter pain medications will relieve their symptoms. People over 50 years old and those with other health issues are at a higher risk of becoming seriously ill.

If people have symptoms and suspect West Nile virus infection, they should contact their health care provider and inform them of previous mosquito exposure.

City leaders have asked residents to take the following steps to reduce the risk of being bitten by a mosquito:

• Wearing an EPA registered insect repellant
• Covering up with long-sleeves and pants
• Keeping mosquitoes out of living areas by using air conditioning or intact window screens
• Limiting outdoor activities during peak mosquito times (sunrise and sunset)
• Dumping standing water around your home

For more information on West Nile virus visit the DSHS website .

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