Health & Fitness

11 Human Cases Of West Nile Reported In Philadelphia: Health Dept

The Health Department said there has been 11 human cases of West Nile Virus in the city this year. But luckily none have been fatal.

PHILADELPHIA – The Philadelphia Health Department is reporting numerous confirmed human cases of West Nile Virus in 2018.

The Health Department announced Friday that it identified 11 confirmed cases of human West Nile Virus thus far in 2018. None of these cases were fatal, however.

Previously, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection has announced that they have seen the highest level of West Nile virus activity in the mosquito population since the disease was first introduced in 2000.

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Human cases were reported on the Main Line and in Montgomery County earlier this year.

Health Department employees are working in a variety of ways to control mosquitoes throughout the city, but need the public’s help.

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West Nile Virus is a neurologic infection that is spread by infected mosquitoes biting humans.

A majority of people who are infected with West Nile Virus don't develop symptoms. However, one in five individuals will develop fever and flu-like symptoms.

One in 150 people will develop severe West Nile Virus infection that causes inflammation of the brain or spine that can lead to death. While people of any age can be infected with West Nile Virus, those 50 years of age and older are at highest risk for severe disease and death. If you or a family member are experiencing unexplained headaches, weakness, and fatigue, see your primary care provider.

Since 2001, the annual number of severe cases among city residents has fluctuated between no cases and up to 24 cases, with peak seasons in 2003, 2010, and 2012. The last five years have been relatively mild, with only three cases seen in 2017.

"We all have a role in preventing the spread of West Nile Virus," said Thomas Farley, Philadelphia Health Commissioner. "And it’s easy to do: wear mosquito repellent and dump out standing water."

The Health Department’s Vector Control Services program works every year prevent mosquitoes through a variety of ways. To date this summer, they have treated more than 57,000 storm drain inlets with larvicide to stop mosquito breeding. They have also conducted four aerosol sprays, intended to kill adult mosquitoes in some areas where West Nile Virus has been found.

Residents are encouraged to report mosquito problems to the Health Department by calling (215) 685-9000. Reporting mosquitoes will trigger an inspection and, if appropriate, treatment of the problem. The most effective way to prevent the spread of West Nile Virus is to keep mosquitoes from breeding on your property. Tips to mosquito-proof your home and neighborhood:

  • Anything that can hold water can breed mosquitoes, from soda bottle caps to discarded tires. Check your property for these sources of standing water and dump them out.
  • At least once or twice a week, empty water from flower pots, pet food and water dishes, birdbaths, swimming pool covers, buckets, barrels, cans, and any other items outside your home.
  • Empty and store wading pools for kids on their side.
  • Check for clogged rain gutters and clean them out.
  • Remove unused tires, and other items that could collect water.
  • Aerate ornamental ponds or stock them with fish.
  • Be sure to check for containers or trash in places that may be hard to see, such as under bushes or under your home.
  • Keep well-fitted screens on both windows and doors.
  • Call the Health Department’s Mosquito Complaint hotline at (215) 685-9000 to report mosquito problems in your neighborhood.

Given that some mosquitoes will find a way to survive, there are things that residents can do to avoid being bitten. Tips to prevent West Nile virus for you and your family:

  • Wear insect repellent on exposed skin when outdoors. The insect repellant should contain one of the following ingredients: DEET, Picardin, Oil of Eucalyptus, or PMD.
  • When weather permits, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants whenever you are outdoors.
  • Consider staying indoors at dawn, dusk, and in the early evening, when mosquitoes are most active.

Image via Shutterstock


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