West Nile discovered in Shelby County resident; first case of 2018

SHELBY COUNTY, TN (WMC) - A Shelby County resident has contracted West Nile Virus, marking the first case in the county in 2018.

Shelby County Health Department has been treating areas across the county for mosquitoes since February because of unseasonably warm winter temperatures.

They will continue this process until the first frost of the year.

Humans can get West Nile Virus from mosquitoes. While most cases are mild, some can cause severe disease with a high fever, neck stiffness, disorientation, coma or convulsions.

People over age 50 or with weakened immune systems are especially vulnerable.

There is no human vaccine for West Nile Virus. The best way to avoid mosquitoes is to get rid of any standing water around homes and businesses.

Shelby County Health Department has a few tips to help avoid mosquitoes as well, using their '4 Ds.'

• DEFEND yourself by using insect repellent. Follow label instructions.
• DRESS in long sleeves and pants, loose and light colored clothing when outdoors.
• DUSK/DAWN stay indoors during this time to avoid mosquitoes when they are most active
• DRAIN standing water and install or repair window screens

Last year, there were eight confirmed cases of West Nile in Shelby County, and 29 in the state of Tennessee; one case was fatal.

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