Archive for June, 2008

West Nile Virus and Transplant Recipients

June 26, 2008

West Nile Virus is can cause serious illnesses that affect the central nervous system. The virus in now known throughout the United States. And we all know that the most possible way for a person to become infected is if he/she is bitten by an infected mosquito. Transplant RecipientsAccording to reports, people who received transplants may be at a significantly higher risk of developing serious west nile virus diseases, including meningitis and encephalitis.Increased Risk of Severe West Nile Vir…

Posted in West Nile Virus | No Comments »

Health Department Begins Annual Tracking of West Nile Virus

June 20, 2008

In Vermont each year, mosquitoes are mapped out, targeted and trapped. When spotted they are swatted and squished. The Department of Health in Vermont is interested these mosquitoes is whether or not they are infected with West Nile virus. The west Nile virus is transmitted from infected birds to certain type of mosquitoes that routinely feed on certain birds like robins, jays, crows, ravens and raptors.Starting June 16, people are encouraged to report all dead by calling 1-800-913-1139.From the…

Posted in West Nile Virus | No Comments »

Minnows to Help Control Mosquito Breeding

June 13, 2008

In Maricopa County, Arizona, people have found a unique way to prevent mosquito numbers and the chances of getting the West Nile virus from growing. For the homeowners of Maricopa County, the prevention is better than cure. That is why they are taking steps in stopping “green pools” from becoming breeding grounds of mosquitoes. In Maricopa County, there has only been one human WNV case reported and they do not wish to add to that. They are happy to share their secret weapon: a fish called S.S. M…

Posted in West Nile Virus | No Comments »

Rates of Westnile Virus Cases Going Down

June 6, 2008

2008 is seeing a decline in the number of Westnile virus cases both in humans and in animals. There were reportedly only six cases of human infection in four states namely: Arizona, Texas, Mississippi and Tennessee. There are also reportedly lower cases of animal and mosquito infections for this year, and they only occurred in five states, namely: Alabama, California, Florida, South Carolina, and Texas. Compared to the previous years, the decline is fairly significant. In 2007, there were more o…

Posted in West Nile Virus | No Comments »