Case of West Nile virus found in Harrison County, first in Iowa in 2024

DES MOINES, Iowa (KCAU) — The first West Nile virus case in Iowa for 2024 was found in a Harrison County resident.

According to the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the infection was found in an older adult between the ages of 61-80 and was confirmed at the State Hygienic Lab.

State officials want to to remind people that with warmer weather there is an increased chance of getting bit by mosquitos, which is the main form of transmissions in humans for the West Nile virus. As such, Iowans are asked to take preventive measures, like using insect repellent with DEET, Picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, Para-menthane-diol, 2-undecanone or IR3535 to lower the chance of getting bitten.

When using insect repellent, always check the label directions. If using sunscreen with insect repellent, it is suggested to apply sunscreen first and insect repellent second.

Iowa HHS also provided additional steps for protections:

• Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, shoes, and socks outdoors when possible.
• Look for standing water in buckets, cans, pool covers, used tires, pet water dishes, and other areas water may collect.
• Clear standing water from around your home where mosquitos reproduce.

Anyone who becomes infected with the West Nile virus may not show any signs or symptoms while others may experience minor symptoms like fever and mild headache. Some can develop serious symptoms such as a high fever, headache, disorientation, and muscle weakness.

Anyone who experiences the mild signs and symptoms of an infection will generally recover on their own. Meanwhile, officials say that anyone who develops a severe headache, disorientation, or sudden weakness requires immediate medical attention.

There were 17 Iowans diagnosed with West Nile virus in 2023, resulting in one death.

Iowa HHS has more information about the West Nile virus on its website .

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