The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) indicated Friday that West Nile virus activity is increasing across Iowa. According to the IDPH, there are currently nine confirmed cases human infection, and additional eight cased are currently under investigation. Non-human West Nile virus activity is also increasing with two reported equine cased and 28 positive mosquito samples confirmed so far. The IDPH reported the first death associated with West Nile in a central Iowa county earlier this month. Virus season typically lasts into early fall, and experts recommend patients take steps to reduce their risk of exposure. Iowans should use insect repellent with DEET, Picaridin, or other similar compounds while outside, avoid outdoor activities at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active, wear long clothing whenever possible and remove any standing water around the home. Last year, 12 Iowans were diagnosed with West Nile and two died. For more information on mosquito- and tick-borne diseases, follow the link included with this story on our website.
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https://www.idph.iowa.gov/cade/vectorborne-illness?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
