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West Nile Virus Activity Continues To Increase With Nearly 100 Cases Now In Iowa

West Nile virus activity shows no signs of slowing, according to a report released Friday by the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH). The report indicated there are currently 99 cases of West Nile virus that have been confirmed or are under investigation within the state, an increase of 26 cases from Sept. 14. This year is the second-highest number of cases since 2003 when 147 people contracted the disease. The department is advising providers to consider West Nile when diagnosing patients and encourages Iowans to protect themselves from potential exposure while outdoors. They recommend everybody, especially the very young and elderly, to use insect repellent, cover their skin with long sleeves and pants and avoid outdoor activity around dusk and dawn. Mosquito activity is expected to continue until the first hard frost of the fall.

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